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Frontispiece 








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BY 

MARY DWINELL'6hELLIS, 

>» 

“Author of “Bill Brock’s Investment,” “Old Doctor’s Son,” 
“Mark Dunninj^’s Enemy,” &Ci 




/ 

BOSTON: 

EENRY A. TOUJfG ^ CO. 

NO. 24 CdENHILL. 


•pt'^ 


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"Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1871, by 
HENRY A. YOUNG & CO., 

^ ' I» the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. 

V 

V 


\ 


Permit 

- - 

CHAPTER I. 

Fill high the glass with ruby wine, 

And shout the praises of the vine ; 

Drink, till forgotten care and ill, 

Drink, till each pulse shall feel the thrill; 

But know, for this, stem judgments wait, 

And he who drinks must bide his fate. 

OOK, Hal! Rip Yan Winkle must 
have fallen asleep, for the second 
time, among these hills ; and just 
waked up. See ! There he comes, 
down the street.” 

“Rip Yan Winkle, indeed,” was the reply. 
“ Only he lacks the ruddy face and stout 



. V 


5 


6 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


figure of a Dutchman. Here, Crombie, who 
is that coming down the street ? 

“ Mr. Wolcott, the hermit, as he is called. 
He must be out on special business, or he 
wouldn’t be dressed in that style. Haven’t 
you seen him, before ? I forgot, though, 
you are new comers. Mr. Wolcott is one 
of the institutions of Holcombe. An old 
school gentleman, but a little flighty ; ” and 
the speaker touched his forehead, as he said 
this. “ He is looking his best to-day ; prob- 
ably going to the bank, for his monthly 
allowance. It is after hours, but they always 
accommodate him. He must have spent too 
much time in polishing his buckles ; ” all 
which only served to stimulate the curiosity 
of Warren Lewis and Harry Manson. 

A coat of ancient fashion, short breeches 
and long stockings, knee-buckles and ‘buckled 
shoes would have made Mr. Wolcott a con- 
spicuous figure, without the military hat, 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 7 

which was the crowning glory of his ward- 
robe. Tall and stately, although age had 
set its seal upon him, he walked slowly 
down the street, bowing ceremoniously to all 
whom he met. 

‘‘ He must have learned his manners in 
good society,’’ remarked Warren Lewis. 
‘‘Did you see how polite he was to ^that 
old woman ? We must ask Aunt Ellen about 
him. I thought I had seen all the wonders 
of Holcombe, long ago ! ” 

“How long?” was asked *in reply, as the 
two young students passed througli an open 
gate, to a large old-fashioned house, over 
which Aunt Ellen presided. She was stand- 
ing on the piazza, looking weary and sad, 
yet smiling, as they approached. 

“ Is Ellis suffering much this afternoon ? ” 
asked Harry, forgetting, for the moment, 
Mr. Wolcott, and his quaint dress. 

“ Yes, he has suffered very much,” an- 


8 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


swered the lady. He has been wishing 
he could go out under the trees ; and it 
does seem hard that he must be denied all 
boyish sports.” 

“ It is too bad,” said Warren Lewis. 
“And he could be such a splendid scholar, 
tbo. One of the fellows told me he’d begun 
to study Latin with Uncle Paul.” 

“ Yes, he had ; and sometimes he studies 
it for a little while, now, when he feels like 
applying himself. He has been more rest- 
less than usual,* to-day. I hoped your uncle 
would come home early.” 

“You are very tired, Aunt Ellen.” 

“ I believe I am, and a little dispirited,” 
was the reply.” 

Mrs. Farley was more than a little dis- 
pirited. Her boy, upon whom she doted, 
and for whom she had dreamed of a future, 
bright only as may be, in a mother’s dream, 

J. 'V' 

was to ..be a cripple. For hours, he would 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 9 

lie, with his head thrown back, unnaturally, 
and his thin lips quivering with pain. That 
day the hours had seemed longer, and the 
pain harder to bear than usual. He grew 
restless ; fretting at confinement, and longing 
for change. 

“ If father would only come. Do see if 
he is coming, mother,” he said; and it was 
for this Mrs. Farley had gone out upon the 
piazza. 

“Uncle will be late to-night,” remarked 
Harry Manson. “ Some gentlemen called 
just before the close of the last recitation. 
Don’t you think Ellis would let me bring 
him out of doors? I am very strong, and 
I am used to carrying my sister. She says 
I carry her better than father. Please, 
when 1 come down stairs, you come out of 
the room, and I think I can coax him to 
let me try.” 

“ I wish you could, Harry. It would be 


10 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


such a relief; but if he should consent, you 
may, sometime, find your kindness over- 
tasked. I used to carry Ellis, myself, until 
your uncle and the doctor forbade it.” 

Harry went to his room, and returned, 
presently, looking so fresh and strong, that 
the very sight of him was a tonic. He wore 
a dressing-gown which Ellis particularly 
admired, and an embroidered velvet cap 
which his invalid sister, Sadie, had given 
him the day before he left home. “Will 
I do ? ” he asked, as he passed his aunt in 
the hall, and the next moment he was 
standing by Ellis. 

“Oh, dear! I hoped it was father,” said 
the boy. I want to ^o out of doors.” 

“ Can’t you ride in your carriage ? ” 

“ No ; I’d rather lie here,” he answered, 

$ * ' 

impatiently. “It hurts me to ride, and it 
never was half so good as riding in father’s 
arms. How nice you look,” he added, 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 11 

seeming for the first time to observe his 
cousin’s appearance. ‘‘ I’m cross to-day, 
cousin Ilarry, and I know it’s wicked; but 
it seems as though I couldn’t help it;” 
and two large tears rolled down the pale 
cheeks. 

I don’t wonder you feel so,” was the 
kind reply. ‘‘You are tired of staying in 
the house. Sadie gets tired very often, and 
then I carry her in my arms till she gets 
rested.” 

> 

“ But I thought cousin Sadie was a young 
lady ; and you are only a large boy.” 

“ A pretty large boy,” replied Harry, 
laughing. “ I am nearly as tall as your 
father, and Sadie is a very small young 
lady. So it is easy for me to carry her.” 

“ Is she as heavy as I am ? ” 

“ I presume she is. - She is five years 
older than you. Let me lift you, and see 
which is the heavier.” 


12 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


‘‘ But won’t you hurt me, cousin Harry ? 
Everybody does, except father and mother.” 

“ I don’t think I shall hurt you, Ellis ; ” 
and the young man bent over the couch, 
upon which rested his cousin. “ Put your 
arms around my neck. There, now did I 
hurt you ? ” 

“ Not a bit,” was the joyous answer. ‘‘ I 
guess you’ve learned how. You didn’t pull 
me any where.” 

“ I guess 1 have learned. I have carried 
Sadie a good many miles in my arms. Now, 
where would you like to go?” 

“ Under the trees. I want ” — 

“ Well, what do you want ? Just imagine 
that I am a- good fairy, able to grant anything 
you desire.” 

I want to go down to the pond ; but it’s 
too far for you to carry such a heavy 
boy.” 

“ We’ll see about that. We can take it 
easily.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


13 


All this time, Harry had been pacing the 
room with a slow, measured tread, soothing 
by its very uniformity. “ Now, do you think 
you will tnist me to carry you out of 
doors ? he asked. 

“ I guess I will, cousin. I feel better, 
already, and I am going to love you, ever 
so much. I didn’t want to have you and 
cousin Warren come here. Did you know 
it?” 

“ How should I ? ” was the evasive reply. 
“ Why didn’t you wish to have us come ? ” 

“ I’m ashamed to tell ; but I will, though, 
because mother says we feel better, when 
we confess we’ve done wrong. I was afraid 
father and mother wouldn’t think so much 
of me, after you come. I was foolish and 
naughty; but I shan’t do so again. 

“ I guess you won’t, Ellis. Suppose we 
go and find your mother. Here we are. 
Aunt Ellen ; two boys walking on one pair 


14 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


of feet; and if you will walk with us, we 
shall have no trouble.” 

“ Oh, mother ! ” cried the lame boy. 
“ Cousin Harry carries me every bit as well 
as father does. He learned how, carrying 
Sadie. Good afternoon, cousin Warren.” 

“ Good afternoon,” answered the young 
man. ‘‘You are really getting up in 
the world. I must take lessons of Hal, so 
I can carry you myself. He is considered 
a wonderful nurse at Uncle Manson’s. Sadie 
says he never gets tired.” 

“Aren’t you getting tired?” asked Ellis, 
when they had been out of doors a short 
time. 

“Not at all,” was the reply. “You are 
not so heavy as Sadie. We must go to the 
pond, now we are so near. Are you com- 
fortable ? ” 

“ Yes, indeed ; ” and a pair of wasted 
arms were twined more closely around the 
good cousin’s neck. 


THE, HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


15 


By the pond there were some rustic 
benches, and here, the whole party were 
resting, when Professor Farley found them. 

As the house was deserted, I came in 
search of the inmates,” he said. “I could 
not avoid being late, although I supposed 
Ellis would be impatient to see me. But I 
see that he has transferred his allegiance 
to Harry.” 

I ivas impatient to see you, father, and 
I am ever so glad to see you, now,” re- 
sponded Ellis, from his new resting place. 
“ But isn’t cousin Harry real good, to carry 
me ? ” 

“Very good, and I am very much obliged. 
But I will relieve you now, Harry.” 

“Not unless Ellis prefers that you should. 
It seems like home, to have some one in 
my arms, and I am not so tired as you.” 

Ellis did not care to change, and the Pro- 
fessor had the privilege of resting. 


16 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ I saw a friend of yours, as I was coming 
home,” he remarked to his wife. “Mr. Wol- 
cott is out, in court dress, and he enquired 
for my lady, with as much gallantry as 
could any Knight of the olden time. T 
invited him to take tea with us ; but he 
thought his business would detain him until 
too late. He may come, however, and per- 
haps we had better return to the house. The 
young gentlemen can stay here, longer, if 
they choose.” 

“ I want to see Mr. Wolcott, if he comes,” 
said Ellis, quickly. 

“ That must be the man we saw when 
we were coming home,” remarked Warren 
Lewis. “ Crombie said his name was Wol- 
cott. He is, certainly, a striking looking 
person.” 

“ A wreck of a noble man,” was the re- 
sponse. “ An old man, too, although he 
stands erect as most of our young men.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 17 

“ But how came he to be as he is, 
now ? ” asked Harry. 

‘‘ It is a long story, in its details,” an- 
swered the Professor. ‘‘ Failure in business, 
woman’s treachery, and intoxicating drink, 
have wrought his ruin. I will give you his 
history, sometime.” 

“ There he is, coming now,” exclaimed 
Ellis; and truly there was the very man, 
of whom they were speaking. He had ac- 
complished his business before seeing Profes- 
sor Farley; but it was his way to talk of 
pressing engagements, and urgent business. 

I hope I am not intruding,” he said, 
removing his hat, and bowing so low to 
Mrs. Farley that his lips nearly met her 
extended hand. “The Professor invited me 
to his house, and I anticipated so much 
pleasure in coming, that I postponed my 
business.” 

“ And we are very glad to see you, only 


18 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


sorry we were not in the house to welcome 
you,” was the reply of his host. Mr. 
Wolcott, these are our nephews, Warren 
Lewis, and Harry Manson, who have come 
to study under my tuition.” 

“Very happy to see you, young gentle- 
men,” was the response, as the speaker 
bowed with flattering deference. You 
could not find a wiser teacher, or a more 
delightful home.” 

It was then Ellis’ turn to be noticed, and 
he had no reason to complain of neglect. 
The odd visitor complimented, pitied, and 
amused him, in such strange fashion, that 
he could hardly restrain a hearty laugh. 

‘‘I am very glad to see you,” said the 
boy, frankly. ‘‘I haven’t been very happy, 
to-day, until cousin Harry brought me out 
here.” 

“ Why not happy ? ” was asked. 

“ Because I couldn’t get up and walk, 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


19 


just where I wanted to. If I could only 
walk and run like other boys, I should be 
happy.” 

“You see, Ellis makes the same mistake 
as many grown people. He thinks his own 
troubles the severest of any,” remarked the 
Professor; and then added, . before a reply 
could be made, “ Perhaps we had better go 
to the house. I am sure my wife is think- 
ing of tea.” 

“ Are you ready to go, Ellis ? ” asked his 
cousin. 

“ Yes ; but would you rather have father 
carry me ? ” 

“ No. When I am tired, I will find a 
way to dispose of you,” was the reply. 
“ Warren, you can walk on as fast as you 
please. We propose to be slow and stately.” 

Tea was served in Mrs. Earley’s best 
style, and her guest adapted himself to his 
surroundings with ease and grace. He talked 


20 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


upon various subjects, intelligently and well. 
Occasionally, there would be a slight hesi- 
tation, or short pause ; but beyond this, 
there was nothing to indicate a diseased 
brain. 

Ellis, bolstered up in a large chair, which 
had been constructed expressly for him, en- 
joyed the entertainment so much, that he, 
forgot his helplessness. ‘‘ Isn’t he the fun- 
niest man, father ? ” was the exclamation, 
so soon as the family were left by them- 
selves. 

“ He is very strange,” was the reply. “ I 
have rarely seen him appear so well as he 
has this evening. He must have been on 
short allowance for liquor, lately. To-mor- 
row he will probably be intoxicated.” 

‘‘What! That man get intoxicated!” ex- 
claimed Harry Manson. 

“ Certainly. Does it seem strange to 
you ? ” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


21 


“Yes, sir. He is such affine scholar, 
and so intelligent; how can he stoop to in- 
toxication?” 

“ In the same way which others do. But 
it is a terrible desecration in his case. He 
is a graduate of old Harvard, and was one 
of the most promising young merchants of 
Boston. Now, he lives in a tumble-down 
cottage, half a mile from any other house. 
To-day, he appears like a gentleman ; to- 
morrow, he may be as beastly drunk as the 
most degraded sot in town. He has drawn 
his monthly allowance, and will have the 
means of gratifying his appetite.” In reply 
to a questioning glance from his nephews, 
the Professor continued: — “He has wealthy 
relations who provide for him. He draws 
a sum, each month, more than sufficient 
to meet all necessary expenses ; but I pre- 
sume he sometimes suffers for the want of 
suitable food. I have seen him, myself, 
when he had been fasting.”. 


22 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


He ate a lot of supper, to-night,’’ said 
Ellis, whose whole attention had been ab- 
sorbed in the conversation. 

We were glad to have, him,” responded 
Mrs. Farley, with a slight accent of reproof. 

“Yes, mother; but I thought perhaps he 
had been fasting, as father said.” 

“Very likely, Ellis. He spends most of 
his money soon after he gets it, and then 
manages as he can.” 

“ But can’t he be ma^de to do differently ? ” 
asked Warren Lewis. “ It seems as though 
he might be influenced in some way.” 

“ It does seem so, when you take an 
abstract view of such a case. But I know 
of only one way in which he could be in- 
fluenced. If he was confined, where he 
could never act freely, he would not use in- 
toxicating liquors. His friends have thought 
of this; but, on the whole, consider it best 
to leave him as he is. In one sense, he 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 23 

has made a wreck of himself, and his course 
seems inexcusable ; in another, he deserves 
sympathy rather than condemnation. When 
the firm, of which he was a member, failed 
in business, he lost everything, while his 
partner was enriched; and in less than a 
year this partner married the lady to whom 
Mr. Wolcott had been engaged for some 
time. This occurred forty years ago ; and 
since then he has been a wretched, restless 
man. Most people consider him insane. I 
am not sure in regard to that; but it is 
certain that he lacks both faith in God, and 
a sense of his own responsibility. Had he 
possessed these, in the outset, hard as it 
might have been for him to bear the dis- 
appointment of all his hopes, he would have 
endeavored to do his duty, and thus found 
peace and contentment.’^ 

For a while no one made any response 
to this. Mrs. Farley, whose sympathies were 


24 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


strongly enlisted for the unfortunate man, 
could only have expressed her sjmpathy ; 
while her nephews would have considered 
it boasting, to say what they really thought. 

“He was a fool,’’ at length said Warren 
Lewis. “ No need of being a drunkard, 
because every thing don’t go right. He 
couldn’t have had a very strong mind, to 
begin with.” 

“ You might say that in regard to every 
one who does wrong,” replied his uncle, 
smiling, a little sadly, at the self-confidence 
thus expressed. “We all yield to tempta- 
tion, when we ought to stand strong. I 
suppose you have seen instances of such 
weakness.” 

“ Yes, sir, I have ; and been myself an 
instance,” answered Warren, with a blush. 
“But Mr. Wolcott’s case is different. He 
has wasted his whole life. I shouldn’t do 
that.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 25 

‘‘I know JOTI would not deliberately re- 
solve to do that,” was the reply. And 
I much doubt if any one so resolves. It 
is giving way, inch by inch, which brings 
us into danger; and it is refusing to do 
the duties of each day which makes life a 
failure.’’ 

“ But what if we can’t do anything ? ” 
asked Ellis, looking at his father, with sad, 
earnest eyes. 

“ We can do something, my boy,” was 
the quick, cheerful reply. “ If nothing more, 
we can be patient and hopeful, even when 
suffering ; and we can be grateful for all the 
blessings which God gives us. I suppose 
Mr. Wolcott thought he had nothing to live 
for, when he lost his money, and the woman 
he loved ; but he might have had a happy 
life, for all that, if his heart had been 
right. Now, I have given quite a lecture, 
young gentlemen. I think it will be suf- 


26 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


ficient for once, and my boy is getting 
tired. I can tell by the flush on his cheek. 
Don’t you think we had better go to your 
room, Ellis ? ” 

‘‘ Yes, sir, I am tired ; but I want to 
ask you some questions about something I 
read in my new book, to-day. Perhaps I 
could have made it out myself, if I hadn’t 
been so impatient. It has been one of my 
wicked days, but I mean to be better to- 
morrow.” 

Mr. Farley went out with his son, and 
Harry said. 

Do tell us more about Mr. Wolcott, Aunt 
Ellen. Who keeps his house for him?” 

‘‘He is his own housekeeper,” was the 
reply. ‘‘ The woman who lives in the near- 
est house cooks most of his food, and puts 
his house in order, whenever she has an 
opportunity. Sometimes, he asks her to do 
this; but generally, she sweeps and scrubs 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 27 

when he is away. If he is in what he 
calls bad spirits, he fastens the house to 
prevent her getting in ; so that, often, there 
is no cleaning done for weeks. 

“ Why don’t his friends take him away, 
and oblige him to live decently? ” 

“ They have wished to do so, but he 
prefers to stay liere. When he first came 
into town, he boarded at the hotel, and did 
some writing. He posted books, and kept 
the bank accounts, until he drank so badly 
that he could not be trusted. Then his 
friends bought and furnished the house where 
he lives, and where he will probably die. 
He refuses to have any repairs made, and 
clings to every old garment as though far 
better than new. The suit he wore to-day, 
is kept^ carefully locked up in a large trunk, 
and his fancy for wearing it seems, to me, 
more like insanity than anything else T have 
observed in him. Perhaps you would like 


28 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

to visit him some day. It is a pleasant walk 
to liis house; and if you should find him 
sober, he would be very entertaining.’’ 

Not long after this, the two cousins de- 
cided to spend a half holiday in exploring 
the country, and visiting Mr. Wolcott; an- 
ticipating both pleasure and instruction. 
Through the village they walked rapidly, 
then, more slowly, pausing occasionally to 
catch a view of some distant mountain, or 
the gleaming of a tranquil lake. 

‘‘We must have come nearly two miles,” 
at length said Harry. “ Uncle said the 
hermit’s house was a little back from the 
road, on the right hand side, and surrounded 
with old apple trees.” 

“ Yes, all that,” was the reply. “ Another 
thing, he said we should see it from the 
top of a high hill. This one we are climb- 
ing is high enough for the site of an ob- 
servatory. And look, there it is. The 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 29 

roof covered with moss, and part of the 
windows boarded up. That must be the 
place. 1 wonder if we shall find the old 
gentleman at home.” 

The house was reached. They rapped 
loudly; but no one responded. Again they 
rapped, with no better success. They went 
to another door ; but this, like the one they 
had. already tried, was secured from within. 

‘‘He must be gone. I am tired enough, 
though, to rest, and may as well rest here 
as anywhere,” said Harry, suiting the action 
to the word, as he seated himself upon a 
partly hewn log. 

Warren proceeded to examine the outside 
of the dwelling they wished to enter; and 
after being lost sight of by his cousin, for 
a few minutes, returned to say, in a low 
tone, “Mr. Wolcott is at home, and I have 
seen him.” 


“ Wliere ? ” was asked, quickly. 


80 


TKE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


‘‘ On a bed. I looked through a crack in 
the shutter, and it’s my opinion he’s drunk. 
There’s a jug in the chair beside the bed, 
and he looks like a drunken man. Come 
and see him.” 

But what if he should see us ? We 
can’t get out of sight if he does; and it 
would be an awkward scrape to be caught.” 

No danger of that. I tell you he’s 
drunk. Come along and see for yourself.” 

They went to the backside of the house, 
and through an opening in the window shut- 
ter, saw the old man, clad in soiled and 
ragged garments, extended upon a bed, the 
covering of which was scarcely less soiled 
and ragged. The floor of the ■ room was 
strewn with rubbish, and tracked with mud. 

‘‘ Terrible ! ” exclaimed Harry, in a loud 
whisper. ‘‘ I have a great mind to break 
open the door, and rouse him. He may die 
here alone. Perhaps he is dead already.” 


31 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

& 

‘‘ No, he isn’t dead. Hear him breathe ; 
and they stood there, listening eagerly, while 
he was unconscious of their presence. Time 
passed unheeded. 

‘‘ I believe I will go in,” said Harry. 

Better not do that,” replied some one 
behind them. I did not intend to listen,” 
added the woman; for it was a woman 
who had spoken. I’ve . been on the look- 
out all day, to see if anything was stirring 
down liere ; and when I saw you come, I 
thought I’d come too. ’Twouldn’t do the 
least good in the world, for you to stir 
him up. He’d only rave round and tear 
everything to pieces. I’m used to him, and 
know about how he’ll act.” 

But it don’t seem right to leave him 
here in this condition, alh,alone,” was urged 
in reply. 

‘‘I know it,” answered-the woman, moving 
away from the window. I used to think 


82 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


something might be 'done for him, but I’ve 
learned better. The last time his sister 
was here, she said he must live and die 
in this way. When he’s dead drunk, he 
calls it forgetting his troubles, and says 
that’s all the happiness he has. Are you 
acquainted with him ? ” 

“We have seen him but once,” was the 
reply. “He took tea at Uncle Farley’s, 
last week.” 

“Oh, yes. And you are the young men 
he met there. That was the day he got 
his money. He hain’t been sober, much, 
since then. He won’t let me into the 
house, and that’s the reason it’s so dirty. 
Poor man! I pity him, but I can’t help 
him.” 

“ How long will he lie, as he is now ? ” 
“ I can’t tell. When he comes to, enough 
to know anything, he’ll drink as long as 
there’s any liquor in the jug; and when 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. SB 

that’s gone, he’ll be pretty near crazy, for 
a day or two. Oh, it’s a dreadful way to 
live. I tell my boys I’d rather they’d die, 
than grow up to drink liquor. Young men 
think they can stpp, when they’re a 
mind to, but they find when they try, that 
liquor’s got the upper hand. I don’t suppose 
there’s one in our academy any more prom- 
ising than Mr. Wolcott was, when he was 
of their age. He’s got all kinds of out- 
landish books, and was called a great 
scholar ; but he’s nothing but a poor, mis- 
erable drunkard, after all. There, do ex- 
cuse me for running on so. Somehow, 
when I get to talking about that man, I 
don’t know when to stop: and I’ve been 
a good deal anxious, this day or two. Seems 
to me he’s got almost through.” 

By this time they had reached the road, 
where they separated ; but Warren observed 
that, after standing, seemingly irresolute, 
for a time, the woman retraced her steps. 


34 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

“ If we haven’t learned a lesson this af- 
ternoon, we must he dull scholars,” re- 
marked Harry Manson. 

“ I have learned a lesson,” was the reply. 

‘‘ What is it ? ” 

“Not to give up for trifles. I’ve made 
up my mind what I want to do, in this 
world, and I calculate to persevere, let 
come what will. I’m going to be a wealthy 
merchant, and if I fail once. I’ll try again, 
and keep trying, till I succeed. If any girl 
cares more for somebody else than she does 
for me, she’ll be just welcome to go where 
she pleases, and no hearts broken, either. 
What lesson did you learn, Hal ? ” 

“ I learned that there is danger in mod- 
erate ” — 

“ I know what you are going to say,” inter- 
rupted Warren, impatiently. “ I don’t be- 
lieye you’ve seen anything or anybody, for 
the last three months, without reading a 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


35 


temperance lecture. I’m not sure but you 
find lectures in stones, and running brooks.” 

“ I do,” Was the response. ‘‘ Running 
brooks are eloquent with the praises of 
water, and stones bear a dumb testimony 
to the grandeur of firmness. If I am to 
be a physician, I must be well taught. I 
don’t mean, however, to make myself tire- 
some to you. I know we don’t think alike 
about some things ; but you can’t deny that 
such sottish drunkenness as Mr. Wolcott’s 
is terrible.” 

‘‘ I don’t want to deny it, Hal. It seems 
as terrible to me, as it does to you; and 
1 hope you’ll excuse me for speaking hastily. 
I’m not half as good as you are, and every- 
body knows it. I have an abiding sense 
of your superiority.” 

‘‘ Why, cousin Warren.” 

It’s the truth, Hal. Do you suppose 
I’ve forgotten that you saved me from dis- 


36 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


grace, last spring. You’ve saved me, too, 
from doing wrong a good many times, just 
because I should be ashamed to look you 
in the face, afterwards.” 

And somebody else has saved me,” 
was the cheerful reply. “ Sadie has been 
my good angel. She is so sensitive and con- 
scientious, I could never do anything to annoy 
or grieve her. I might have many bad 
habits, but for her. One who uses tobacco 
or liquor is never welcome to her, and 
I wouldn’t lose her kisses, for all the jol- 
lifications in the world. It was the desire 
to relieve her sufferings, that made me think 
of studying medicines.” 

“You are half a doctor, now. Such a 
nurse! you’d receive a diploma from any 
hospital in the country. For my part, I 
don’t see how you can like to stay with sick 
people. Sadie is the only invalid I can tole- 
erate, except Ellis.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


37 


“I am glad you can tolerate them,” re- 
sponded Harry Manson, thinking how often 
Sadie had said, ‘ What should I do, if you 
were like Warren ! ’ “I like to be with sick 
people, if I can do them good. I mean to talk 
with Mr. Wolcott about drinking, and if I 
can’t persuade him to give it up, perhaps T 
shall learn something that will be of benefit 
to others. I want to be a physician for both 
minds and bodies.” 

You are the strangest fellow, cousin Hal. 
Here you are, only seventeen years old, talk- 
ing like an old man. I shouldn’t wonder if 
you should go as a missionary to the Sandwich 
Islands. ’T would be in keeping with some 
things I’ve known of you, and I’ve no doubt 
you’d win hearts for yourself, if not souls for 
Christ.” ’ 

Hush, Warren. You are touching sacred 
things with careless hands.” 

May be I am, Hal ; though I didn’t think 


38 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


of it. But, before you go, you must see me 
well settled in business. You know you’re 
expected to keep me in the way I should go. 
If I was like Ellis ! ” 

“ What if you were ? ” 

“I should wish to die.” 

“ Are you sure ? ” asked Harry, seriously. 
‘‘Life is sweet.” 

“Not if we can do nothing but suffer, and 
be a burden to others.” 

“ But Ellis is not a burden. Neither is 
Sadie. And they may do more good, in their 
weakness, than we, with our strength.” 

“ Either of them will do more good than I,” 
was the response. “As for you, you are a 
model young man; while it is hoped that I 
shall catch something of your goodness, by 
reflection.” 

Not often was Warren Lewis in such mood ; 
but while under its influence, nothing was too 
extravagant for him to say. Dowered richly, 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


89 


by nature, and wanting for nothing which 
money or friends could give, it seemed 
strange that, so young, he should have 
aught to regret, or those who loved him 
aught to fear. But, as he said, his cousin 
had once saved him from open disgrace, and 
often saved him from wrong doing, by the 
force of example. Mortified, whenever he 
thought of this, and impatient at the tem- 
perance lectures, which seemed to him to 
be preached in season and out of season, 
he expressed himself bitterly. 

‘‘ I’m ashamed of myself, Hal,” he ex- 
claimed, after a short silence. The lesson 
you learned this afternoon, was plainly 
writ.” 

“It seemed so to me,” was the reply. 
“But let us talk of something else. We 
shall have letters from home this evening. 
I, a long one from Sadie. I wish I had 
her in my arms this minute.” 


40 THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 

“ How you do love that girl, Hal ! Do 
ydu expect to love another ? ” 

“May be. Yes, I hope so. I can’t help 
it, if I see one as lovable.” 

Letters were found and read before the 
cousins entered their uncle’s house. No 
sooner was their step heard in the hall, 
than Ellis called, 

“ Please come here, cousin Harry, and 
tell me all about Mr. Wolcott. You said 
you would.” 

“ And I will, as soon as I have disposed 
of a quantity of dust for which I have no 
use,” was the reply. 

It was a sad story he told, interrupted 
by frequent ejaculations, and expressions of 
regret. 

“Oh, mother, what makes God let him 
do so ? ” asked the invalid boy. 

“ I don’t know, my child,” she answered. 


“He is not obliged to do so.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


41 


“No, mother; but you say,” — 

“Don’t go to philosophizing,” interrupted 
Harry, smiling. “ Wait a while before you 
try to understand the mysteries of Provi- 
dence. One thing we all know. We are 
never obliged to do wrong.” 

“ We know more than that,” added Mr. 
Farley, joining the group. “We are always 
under obligations to do right, no matter how 
strong the temptation to sin.” 

“ But, uncle, do you believe Mr. Wolcott 
has moral strength to resist the temptation 
to drink liquor ? ” 

“I believe he had the moral strength, 
and could have it again, if he would seek 
it at God’s hands. But it is a fearful thing 
to fight the battle of life with our natural 
powers weakened by indulgence in sin. It 
is easy for many to be temperate ; but it 
would be like plucking out his right eye, 
for Mr. Wolcott to be so. Yet he must 


42 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


pluck it out if he would escape an eternity 
of misery. 

School duties and home pleasures occupied 
every day; but “the hermit’’ was not for- 
gotten. Harry Manson still wished to visit 
him, and improved the first opportunity for 
so doing. Going alone, he encountered the 
old man, looking so pale and dejected that 
his heart was touched. 

“ Good afternoon, Mr. Wolcott,” he said, 
politely. “ How do you do, to-day ? ” 

This salutation failing to elicit, a reply, 
it was repeated. 

“I’m wretched, young man,” was hissed, 
rather than spoken. “ Do you know what 
it is to be lashed by furies, and chained to 
the rock, where vultures feed upon your 
vitals ? Do you know what this is ? ” 

“I hope no one knows that,” answered 
Harry. 

“I know. Shall I tell you what it is 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


43 


like?” and the speaker’s eyes glared fear- 
fully. 

“No, doift tell me that. Let us talk of 
pleasant things. Tell me how the sun shines, 
and the birds sing, and flowers blossom,” 
was the soothing reply. “ I have walked 
from the village to see you, this after- 
noon.” 

“What do you want of a wretch like 
me?” 

“I came to learn wisdom,” said Harry, 
going nearer to his strange companion. 
“Uncle Farley says you are a fine scholar. 
Professor Farley. You are acquainted with 
him,” added the young man. 

“Yes, yes, he is one of my friends, and 
I may have seen you,” answered Mr. Wol- 
cott, with a perplexed air. 

“I am his nephew, Harry Manson, a 
student, and I saw you at his house.” 

“ Yes, yes. Happy to see you ; ” and 


44 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


there was a decided change in the manner 
of the speaker. “ I had a bad night, last 
night, and my head isn’t quite right yet. 
Excuse me for not recognizing you. I would 
invite you to my house, but Mrs. Scott is 
cleaning there. Please to be seated upon 
this flat stone. 1 hope your uncle’s family 
are well as usual. The illness of their son 
is a great affliction; but they bear it cheer- 
fully.” 

“ Yes, sir ; and Ellis is very patient. It 
is a pleasure to be with him.” 

“You were carrying him when I first 
saw you.” 

“ Yes, sir. I am accustomed to carry my 
sister, who is an invalid, so I have learned 
to be a very good nurse.” 

“ I was a good nurse once, myself. But 
you see I’ve forgotten all that. Yes, all 
that,” was repeated sadly. “ I suppose life 
looks bright to you, and you have some 
grand ambition.” 


THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


45 


“ I have a purpose,” replied Harry. I 
intend to study medicine, and be a good 
physician.” 

‘‘Then tell men to let alone the accursed 
drink, that ruins both soul and body,” ex- 
claimed Mr. Wolcott, with startling energy. 
They say there is a hell, where lost spirits 
wail forever; but I tell you there is a hell, 
here, in my breast, where the worm dieth 
not, and the fire is not quenched.” The 
speaker sprang up, threw Ins arms about 
wildly, and seemed in the frenzy of deli- 
N rimn. 

“ Sit down, sit down,” said his young 
friend, gently. “ Uncle sent you some new 
papers; he thought you might like to read. 
I’m afraid you’re not feeling well, to-day.” 

“ I’m in torment ! ” was the reply. “ The 
devils filled my house last night, and to-day 
they fill me. And I’m burning up with 
them. Oh, for some brandy to quench this 
fiery thirst.” 


46 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


‘‘ Let me bring you some water/’ said 
Harry. 

‘‘ Water ! Give water to cliildren, but give 
me brandy.” 

‘‘ But it hurts you to drink brandy, Mr. 
Wolcott. Please don’t drink any more,” 
urged his companion. “You wouldn’t feel 
this burning thirst, if you’d give up tlie use 
of all intoxicating liquors. Do be persuaded.” 

“You preaching to me, young man ! ” and 
there was such ineffable scorn in these words, 
that he to whom they were addressed, was 
fain to hide his head for very shame. “ You 
preaching to me, when you know no more 
than the winds which sweep tlirough the for- 
ests. I know. Yes, I could preach so the 
very devils could hear and tremble. I could 
tell you of a boy who dreamed as bright 
dreams as you, till the demon took possession 
of him. I was that boy, and all the years we 
have struggled and fought, till now the fight 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


4T 


is almost over. And the demon will win ! 
Yes, he’ll win! What are you going to do 
about it, young man? What are you going 
to do? Did you ever see the wine sparkle, 
when bright eyes challenged you to drink? 
Don’t drink it! For God’s sake, and for 
your soul’s sake, don’t! Look at me! See 
what it has done for me! And a false 
woman, false as the sparkling wine ! There’s 
nothing true, but Heaven ; and Heaven’s gates 
are closed for such as me.” 

“Prayer and repentance will open them,” 
said Harry Manson, unable to keep silence. 

“ I pray ! A repent ! ” was shrieked, in 
reply. The demon holds me fast. There’s 
only death and damnation for me. But for 
you, if you look not upon the wine when it 
is red, there is life and salvation. Will 
you heed the warning ? Will you heed it ? ” 
“ Yes, sir, I will,” was the reply. “ And 
you—” 


48 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


“Will fight it out, bravely, 

This demon and I; 

We’ll fight till he conquers, 

And then I shall die.” 

“ Die ! Die ! repeated the old man, and 
strode away. 

The fight was, indeed, almost over.’’ The 
demon conquered ; and only one short month 
after this, the burial service was read, at the 
grave of Henry Wolcott. 


CHAPTER II. 


Youth presses on with eager feet, 

Till pausing, where the two ways meet, 
Which challenge every human soul. 

To life of weakness or control. 

The choice is made, the die is cast. 

And coming years outweigh the past. 


2^^ 


RE you glad you went to see Mr. 
,|K Wolcott, that last time ?’’ asked Ellis 
Farley, looking up into his cousin’s 
‘ face. 

Very glad,” was the reply. ‘‘ I wanted to 
do him good, and I tried.” 

But you didn’t, cousin Harry.- I heard 
father say that Mr. Wolcott hadn’t been sober 
for more than three weeks; so your going 
didn’t do any good.” 

“ It did me good, Ellis. It made me strong- 


60 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOIMBE. 


er. I wouldn’t risk a glass of wine, now, any 
sooner than I would drink poison. I couldn’t 
help wishing, to-day, that every student had 
heard what that old man said, the last time I 
saw him, alive.” 

‘‘You might write it out, and read it to 
them, cousin Harry. Some folks that come 
here drink wine, and I’ve heard them tell 
mother it would do me good. But she don’t 
give it to me, and when I grow up, I shan’t 
drink it.” 

“ What is it you shan’t drink, when you 
grow up ? ” Warren Lewis, just entering the 
room, asked this question. 

“ I shan’t drink wine,” replied the boy. 
“ Harry says he wont, and you wont, either, 
will you cousin Warren ? ” 

A clouded brow, flushed cheeks, and flash- 
ing eyes, betrayed far more feeling than the 
occasion seemed to warrant. “ I can’t tell 
what I shall do,” was the constrained answer. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


51 


“ There is no harm in drinking wine, mod- 
erately.^’ 

“ There may he.” 

‘‘ Why, mother, how still you came ! ” ex- 
claimed Ellis. “ I didn’t hear your step. Did 
you mean to surprise us ? ” 

“ No, my dear, I was not even thinking of 
you, till I heard Warren’s remark.” 

‘‘ And I wasn’t thinking of you, till I heard 
you answer him. I don’t very often forget 
you, when I’m awake, but I did this time. 
Has father come ? ” 

“No. I left him talking with our minister.” 

“ Were they talking about Mr. Wolcott ? ” 

“ I presume so,” answered Mrs. Farley. 
“ Every one seems to be talking of him, since 
his death.” 

“ It would be a wonder if people could talk 
of anything else, this day of all others,” said 
Harry, earnestly. “His history seems too 
strange to be true. If I had read it, I should 


52 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


suppose it to be over-drawn. I shall never 
see any one drink a glass of wine without re- 
calling his words and appearance, the last 
time I saw him. He might have been mad ; 
but there was method in his madness.” 

Another temperance lecture, from which 
Warren Lewis escaped, so soon as civility 
would allow. Mrs. Farley looked after him, 
anxiously. He was the son of her brother, 
and she vfished to see him upright in all 
things. For Harry she had no fears. His 
mother being her only sister, she knew much 
of him ; but outside the home circle, no one 
could really appreciate his goodness and truth. 
His father trusted him, implicitly, his mother 
and sisters well nigh worshipped him ; while 
his young brothers thought Hal “the most 
splendid old fellow in the world.” Some of 
his friends thought it strange that he should 
choose a profession which would give so small 
opportunity for the display of brilliant talents, 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


53 


but he had chosen, deliberately. Others 
may talk, while I work,” he was accustomed 
to say. 

Sadie, his invalid sister, three years younger 
than himself, had reason to rejoice at this 
decision, since it made him a more tender 
•and observant nurse. He had already read 
many medical works, and improved every 
opportunity for gaining medical knowledge. 

Neither himself nor cousin caring for a 
college course, they had come to study under 
the direction of their uncle. Professor Farley ; 
reciting with some of his public classes, 
in addition to receiving private instruction. 
Harry Manson had no definite plans in re- 
gard to the time he should spend in study; 
but his cousin thought two years would 
suffice. 

The latter was troubled when he went to 
his room, after receiving his aunt’s quick 
rebuke. She was right and he was wrong; 
hence his trouble. 


54 THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

He took from his pocket a note which had 
been given him an hour before, but which 
he had forgotten until this moment. It con- 
tained an invitation to meet some students 
for the purpose of forming a club, for mutual 
improvement. 

‘‘ Mum’s the word, on your honor. Burn 
this after reading.” 

This was the conclusion, suspicious in it- 
self; and still more so when connected with 
the fact that it bore no signature. Warren 
Lewis did not even know from whom he 
had received this strange note. A crowd 
was around him when it had been thrust 
into his hand; yet the place and time of 
meeting was designated, so there need be no 
mistake. 

“ I say, Hal, can you keep a secret ? ” he 
asked, when his cousin came into the room. 

“I can, when I have one to keep. I’m 
not given to gossiping.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


55 


‘‘ Well, have you a duplicate of that ? ” 

‘‘ No,” answered Harry, glancing care- 
lessly at the paper extended to him. 

‘‘ Ever seen anything like it before ? ” 

“I guess not. But stay. IVe seen the 
handwriting before.” 

“ Where ? ” 

On the blackboard, last week.” 

‘‘ You are right,” exclaimed Warren. “ I 
understand it all now : and I know why I 
was honored with the mysterious thing. I’d 
give it to you for perusal, if it didn’t put 
me upon my honor. Fudge on the honor, 
though. Read it, and help me keep the 
secret.” 

‘‘ Improvement ! ” said Harry, with a sneer, 
after reading it. “ The secret is safe with 
me. You don’t intend to go ? ” 

“Of course I don’t,” was the reply. “I’ll 
burn the note, and see what comes of it.” 
Nothing came of it to the speaker; but 


56 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


near the close of the school term several 
students were expelled for disorderly con- 
duct, and with their departure the club 
ceased to exist. Some one had been dis- 
appointed in counting on Warren Lewis. 

Meanwhile, he had spent the time profit- 
ably, and Christmas found him and his 
cousin in their city homes. Such welcomes 
and congratulations as both received might 
have turned older and wiser heads ; yet their 
homes were very different. Two sisters 
older than himself, greeted Warren Lewis 
with true, sisterly affection. His father and 
mother looked at him with pride. The idol 
of their hearts, they hoped and believed all 
things good for him, notwithstanding some 
youthful follies. 

“ Most ready for business, my son ? ” asked 
Mr. Lewis, rubbing his hands, in a way pe- 
culiar to him, when he was in good humor. 

“ I don’t think I am quite fitted for busi- 
ness, yet,” was the reply. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


57 


“ Well, well, time enougli yet. No hurry. 
Time enough for study and business both. 
I’ve got along pretty well without much 
book knowledge ; but I want you to do 
better tlian I have. There’s Harry, now, 
don’t care for much besides sick folks, and 
books. It seems strange to me ; but he’s 
a splendid fellow, though.” 

‘‘Yes, sir ; and sure to make his mark 
in the world. Cut out for a doctor, too, 
if ever anybody was. Aunt Ellen says he 
has done more for Ellis, since he has been 
there, than their physician. He has a way 
of exorcising pain, and soothing irritated 
nerves, without seeming to make any effort.” 
" “ And Ellis is better ? ” 

“Yes, sir, very much better than he was 
last summer. He can stand on his feet, 
now, and the day before we came away, 
he took a few steps, with Harry’s assistance. 
It tired him very much, of course, but he 


58 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


was delighted, and Aunt Ellen really cried 
for joy.” 

“ Glad to hear he is better,” said Mr. 
Lewis. “ But I suppose he will be a crip- 
ple.” 

‘‘ Yes, sir, the doctor thinks so.” 

‘‘Hard case. But your Aunt Ellen will 
make the best of it, and so will her husband. 
I am glad my children are so healthy and 
handsome,” added the fortunate man, with a 
hearty laugh, which seemed contagious, so 
quickly was it echoed. 

“You flatter us,” exclaimed one of his 
daughters. 

“Do I? Well, I have just as good a right 
to flatter you as some other people I know 
of;” and again the hearty laugh rang out. 
“We are going to have a Christmas dinner 
in the old English style,” remarked this happy 
father soon after. “Roast beef, plum pud- 
ding, and whatever else your mother and the 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


69 


cook see fit to give us. The girls are talking 
about holly and evergreen ; but I don’t know 
much about such things. I’ve read of mis- 
tletoe, though ; and when I was a young man, 
I used to wish I had a bough to hang over 
your mother’s head. There now, wife, you 
may have the floor, and say anything you 
please.” 

Mr. Lewis was so happy in having his 
family once more together, that he was excus- 
able for being undignified; His wife, less 
demonstrative, felt quite as much ; rejoicing 
more in the contents of a letter she had 
received from Mrs. Farley, than in the pres- 
ence of her son. He had done well ; never 
deserving reprimand, while at Holcombe. For 
this she was very thankful ; although she knew 
he had been so guarded from temptation, his 
own strength was scarcely tested. 

A grand Christmas dinner, in the old 
English style, was not to her taste ; but 


60 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


yielding to the wishes of her husband and 
daughters, she had commenced preparations. 
There was choice wine in the cellar to be 
used on this occasion, ‘‘ of course^' said Mr. 
Lewis. “Who ever heard of a Christmas 
dinner, without wine?’’ he asked. 

“ I presume many people have heard of 
them,” was his wife’s reply. “ But even if 
there never had been one, that would be no 
reason why we should have wine.” 

“ I wish you wouldn’t oppose me in this, 
wife,” exclaimed Mr. Lewis, a little impatient- 
ly. “ I always yield to you, because I know 
you are wiser than I am ; but I’ve set my 
heart upon this dinner, wine and all. There 
can’t be any harm in drinking wine once 
a year. I’m 'getting to be a regular teetotaler, 
under your influence, he added, pleasantly. 
You don’t suppose I’d get drunk at my own 
table, do you?” • 

“I don’t suppose you’d get drunk any- 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 61 

where ; and Mrs. Lewis looked full in her 
husband’s face as she said this. 

“ I believe that danger was past years ago, 
thank God. But we must think of others ; 
your sister’s family never use wine. Even 
the smell of it is disagreeable to Sadie. And 
husband, you sent Warren to brother Farley’s, 
to keep him out of the way of temptation.” 

“ I know it, wife. I know it. I see your 
corner. You’ll drive me to the wall, and 
make me give up, as usual.” 

“ But, husband, you know I never wish to 
oppose you in anything. I only do it when 
duty compels me.” 

‘‘ I do know it, my dear. You are the best 
wife in the world. . If it hadn’t been for you, 
ten chances to one but I’d been wandering 

O 

round the country a miserable drunkard. I 
do hope Wxirren will get just such a woman as 
you are for a wife. He’s too much like me in 
some things. That’s the trouble with him.” 


62 


THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


The day before Christmas, Sadie Manson 
was talking with her mother, in regard to the 
proposed dinner. It will be beautiful there, 
and I shall be very glad to go, if they don’t 
have wine,” she said, without looking to see 
who had just opened the parlor door. 

“ What’s that, puss ? You’ll be glad to go 
if they don’t have wine ? ” And there stood 
Uncle Lewis before her. They wont have a 
drop of wine,” he continued, rubbing his 
hands. ‘‘ The mistress of ceremonies has for- 
bidden it, and the master never opposes her. 
There’s a lesson for you, Sadie. Now, my 
wife and I don’t always think alike ; but she’s 
always right, and some way I’m ashamed to 
stand out against her. Never scolds, you 
know, but talks what she means, and looks 
right straight at me, and the minute I see the 
tears in her brown eyes, I’m ready to go down 
on iiiy knees to please her. See if you can 
manage your husband as well, girl. If you 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 63 

can, there will be one good man in the world, 
while he lives. I was a wild fellow wlien 
your aunt took me in hand. I only wonder 
she had the courage to do it ; ” and as John 
Lewis said this, there were tears in his honest 
blue eyes. “ There, I guess I’ve talked enough 
about that. Where’s Harry ? ” 

“ Gone out with the children, to look in the 
shop windows, and see what there is to be 
seen.” 

“ I’m sorry for that. The girls want him, 
at our house ; and Warren was so busy, I 
volunteered to get out of the way, and came 
after him. About where do you suppose I 
could find him ? ” 

“I can’t tell you,” answered his mother, 

“ After giving the children their treat, he was 
going to see a poor boy, on Cady street.” 

“Poor boy!” repeated Mr. Lewis, with a 
grimace. “I suppose he’s sick, or lame, or 
something the matter.’^ 


64 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

“Yes, lie is very much like Ellis Farley,” 
was the reply. “ His mother washed for me, 
last summer, and told me about him. She is 
too poor to pay for proper medical advice, and 
Harry went there, yesterday. He thinks, per- 
haps, he can help him in some way.” 

“No doubt of it, sister, and I think I might 
help a little. Here’s a five dollar bill to buy 
a Christmas dinner for the poor woman. I 
want everybody to have a good dinner, to- 
morrow.” 

“ Such sights and sights of beautiful things,” 
as the children had seen, and “such nice 
presents ” as they had bought for the poor boy 
Harry had gone to see. 

“ I tell you, mother, he’ll need a pretty big 
stocking to hold them all,” said one. 

“ Harry bought some flour, and a chicken, 
and some potatoes, for his mother. Don’t 
you believe they’ll be real glad? We went 
clear to the door, to help carry the things; 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 65 

but Harry said we’d better not go in. Isn’t 
be the splendidest fellow in the world? I 
mean to be just like him, when I grow up. 
Wouldn’t you, Sadie ? ” 

I d be as near like him as I could, was 
the sister’s reply. Uncle Lewis has been 
here and gave mother five dollars for Johnny’s 
mother; so they’ll have a happy Christmas.” 

“ And we’ll have a happy Christmas, too,” 
chimed in two or three voices. Uncle Lewis 
found us in one of the stores, and he told us 
about it. He rubbed his hands all the time, 
just as he does when he feels real happy ; and 
he said we ought not to eat a mouthful of 
breakfast, to-morrow.” 

“And so you propose to fast until dinner,” 
remarked Sadie. 

‘‘No, sister, I don’t believe I shall,” was 
the reply. I think I must have a few griddle 
cakes. And as the speaker had an unusual 
fondness for such cakes he was cheered, 
noisily.” 


66 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


The cousins waited long for Harry Manson, 
who came at last, to say that he could not 
come before. He was very sorry, but the 
poor boy he had visited needed so much care 
that he could not leave. 

Wliat a wonder you are ! ” said his cousin 
Mildred. “ I’m not sure but I should send 
for you, myself, if I was sick. I really believe 
you have done more for Sadie than all the old 
doctors.” 

“ I have done what I could,” was his re- 
sponse. “ However, as I am not making a 
professional call, do please set me to work.’^ 
Yes, give him something to do, and keep 
him out of mischief,” added Warren, who was 
engaged in festooning evergreen. 

At this, Mildred and Harry left the room ; 
and not until the next day, when some mock 
viands were served at dinner, did any one but 
the cook suspect how they spent the evening. 
Mr. Lewis, who always enjoyed a practical 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


67 


joke, when no one was harmed thereby, rubbed 
his hands more briskly, and laughed more 
heartily than ever. The children shouted, 
and a vote of thanks was tendered to those 
who had thus contributed to the general 
amusement. 

It was a Christmas not soon to be for- 
gotten. The poor woman to whom timely 
assistance had been rendered, and the child 
whose sufferings were relieved were, perhaps, 
happier than those who needed no assistance. 
Johnny talked, constantly, sometimes, of the 
nice gentleman who was going to make him 
almost well, and sometimes of the presents 
he had received ; while his mother rejoiced 
in the gladness which made him half forget 
present discomfort and pain. 

“I shan’t be lonesome a bit, when you 
are -gone away to work, now,” he said, “I 
shall have so many pretty things to look 
at, and so many books to read. Aint it 


68 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


good, mother ? And then to think they 
should all come when you felt so bad. I 
wish I could see that boy that’s lame, just 
like me ; and X do hope my nice gentleman 
will come again to-morrow.” 

His hope was realized ; and more sure 
than before that he should be cured, his 
delight was unbounded. He had gazed at 
the same narrow strip of sky, counted the 
same dingy windows, and looked down into 
the same dirty alley, until the thought of 
ever going beyond them seemed like a dream, 
too bright to be realized. 

I shan’t mind a bit, if the boys do call 
me crutchy and limpy,” he remarked in the 
evening, after what was to him, a long 
silence. My gentleman said I must be pa- 
tient and gentle; and he said he’d tell me 
about a poor lame boy, every bit as poor 
and lame as I am, that made a smart man. 
If I could only work enough to take care 


THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


69 


of you, it would be so nice. Ask God to 
help me, so I can, won’t you, mother? My 
gentleman said I must ask him ; but you’re 
so much larger, he’ll hear you* first. You 
will ask him, won’t you, mother ? ” 

Mrs. Carr did not reply immediately. In 
the struggle for daily bread, she had neg- 
lected prayer, until she dared not now pre- 
sent her requests to God; but when the 
question was repeated, she answered, ‘‘ Yes, 
child, I will try.” 

Christmas vacation was not long; but be- 
*fore returning to Holcombe, Harry Manson 
had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. Carr in 
more comfortable quarters. She was estab- 
lished in two sunny rooms, the chief attrac- 
tions of which, in Johnny’s eyes, were the 
broad window ledges, upon which were some 
plants. 

“ A garden, too,” he exclaimed, when he 
first saw them. Oh, mother, ain’t God 


70 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


good to let US have all these nice things ? 
And ain’t you good, too, my gentleman?” 
turning to Harry, who looked scarcely less 
happy than this boy, cradled in his arms. 
“ I want to do something for you. Can’t 
I?” 

‘‘Yes; you can be patient and pleasant, 
and try every day to improve ; you must 
read a little so you may be a good scholar, 
by and by ; and you must do just as the 
doctor tells you, even if it does seem hard.” 

Through the influence of Harry, a skillful, 
kind-hearted physician had consented to take 
charge of his protege, and there was a pros- 
pect of better days for one whose whole life, 
thus far, had been full of sufiering. 

Again, at Holcombe, there were long talks 
about Johnny Carr ; Ellis Farley wishing to 
be told everything in regard to liim. “How 
does he look ? ” was one of the many ques- 
tions asked. “ Any like me ? ” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


71 


“Not at all,” was the reply. “He has 
black eyes and black hair.” 

“ Then he looks like cousin Warren,” re- 
marked Ellis. 

“ Oh, no ; ” answered Harry Manson. 
“ Only the color of their hair and eyes is 
the same. Johnny’s face is very thin, and 
he has a half-starved look. He has lived 
all his life in close rooms, where there was 
neither sunlight nor air. I suspect he has 
been hungry, sometimes. His mother is very 
poor.” 

Then he is a great deal worse off than 
I am. Why, I never wanted anything in 
my life, that would do me good, but what 
father or mother gave it to me. I wish I 
could send Johnny some of my things. But 
you don’t mean he shall be hungry any 
more, do you?” 

“ I don’t mean he shall,” was the reply. 
“ The boys are going to look after him, and 


72 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


bis mother will have plenty of work. Uncle 
Lewis, too, will do something for him.” 

“ Can cousin Sadie go to see him ? ” asked 
Ellis. 

I am afraid not, this winter,” replied 
her brother. ‘‘ She can’t go up-stairs, very 
well, and Johnny lives up-stairs. By next 
spring, we hope she will be stronger.” 

And then she is coming to see me,” 
exclaimed the child, with sudden animation. 
“ And I shall tell her how good you are, 
and how much I love you. I wish you would 
stay here, always.” 

Before leaving home, Warren Lewis had 
visited Johnny Carr, and given substantial 
evidence of thoughtful kindness. His sisters, 
too, were interested in him ; and not a letter 
was received, by the cousins from home, 
during the winter, but contained some men- 
tion of the Carrs. When the spring opened, 
there had been such decided improvement in 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


73 


Johnny, that he was able to walk a little, 
with the aid of crutches; and so happy was 
he, that had a general shout of derision 
greeted his appearance on the sidewalk, he 
might have mistaken it for a disguised wel- 
come. 

The welcome, however, was not disguised. 
He had made friends with the boys of the 
neighborhood ; any one of whom was glad to 
do him a favor. It was a great day for him, 
when standing on a level with others, he felb 
the soft spring breezes fanning his face. And 

my gentleman ” had wrought the wondrous 
change for him. “ Just the best gentleman in 
the world,” as he told Sadie, when she called 
upon him, previous to going to Holcombe, for 
the summer. 

“ Tell him I love him, wont you ? ” said 
Johnny, looking at Sadie, wistfully. And 
that other gentleman, that brought me the 
books, I love him, too. Mother says, perhaps 


74 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


I can do something for them, when I grow 
up.’’ 

All this was repeated at Holcombe; and 
although Warren Lewis smiled at the thought 
of this poor boy ever being of service to him, 
he appreciated the gratitude thus expressed. 

The summer passed delightfully. Sadie 
Manson was able to study some hours of each 
day, and Ellis grew so much stronger that he 
seldom needed to be carried, ‘‘as a baby.” 
Warren laughingly told Harry that his occu- 
pation was gone, unless some new case should 
present itself. 

“It’s rather hard on Hal,” he said, one 
evening, when all were in merry mood. “ His 
arms are empty, and just now, having no par- 
ticular trouble with me, his mission, as a 
philanthropist, is nearly ended.” 

“Not yet well commenced,” was the reply. 
“I see plenty of opportunities for philan- 
thropic efforts.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 75 

“ I retract Hal. I had forgotten that a 
physician is a philanthropist, by reason of his 
profession. Sadie, do you know that father 
wants Hal to go into business with me ? He 
offers to furnish the capital, and divide the 
profits between us. I wish you’d persuade 
the doctor to accept.” 

But Sadie only shook her head. She had 
heard the matter discussed at home ; and 
although this offer was one of rare generosity, 
Mr. Manson was not inclined to urge its 
acceptance by his son. 

“Hal would make a first rate merchant,” 
continued Warren. “He’s a grand financier.” 

“ Necessity is a good teacher,” replied 
Harry, smiling. “ I have a limited amount 
of money at my disposal, from which I wish 
to realize as much as possible.” 

“ If you had said that, you wished others to 
realize from it, as much as possible, you 
would have come nearer the truth.” 


76 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


So these cousins dwelt together in the best 
possible terms, while two years passed. The 
time seemed short as they looked back, and 
there were many regrets at leaving Holcombe. 
Harry Manson expected to return again, for 
a few months ; but Warren Lewis was through 
with study. 

“ You have done well,” said his uncle,- when 
they were about to separate. “ I have only 
commendation for you ; but the best of your 
moral strength is yet to come. It has been 
easy for you to do right here. It may be 
very hard for you, under different circum- 
stances. The temptations most likely to come 
to us are those most difficult for us to 
resist ; and you, like all who have lived 
before you, will need the safeguard of heart- 
religion. Eemember this, my boy, and don’t 
trust your own strength. It would give 
me great pain, if either you or Harry should 
go wrong.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


77 


“ No danger of him, sir,” was the reply. 
“ I’d vouch for him, anywhere ; and as for 
myself, I intend to do about right.’’ 

Three months were given to visiting and 
travel ; after which Mr. Lewis and his son 
talked earnestly of business. ‘‘I am wil- 
ling to work,” said the young man in answer 
to a remark made by his father. “ Don’t 
spare me any more than you would an ordinary 
clerk I know I ought not to,” was the 
reply. ‘‘ Hard work is the best thing to 
keep young folks in the right track. Hard 
work and your mother kept me where I 
belonged. I am glad I can do more for my 
children than my father could for his ; but it 
didn’t hurt me to be poor. It’s given me a 
kind feeling for other boys that have to make 
their own way. I’ve an eye, now, to Johnny 
Carr. When he’s ready for work I calculate 
to help him along. He has a clear head for 
such a boy; and the doctor says, he’ll come 
out all right, except limping a little.” 


78 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Yes, Johnny told me so the last time I 
saw him,’’ answered Warren.’ ‘‘He says he 
don t care for limping, either, if he can only 
get over the ground. No danger but he’ll 
keep his feet moving, and his eyes open. I 
never saw such a change in any one as there 
has been in him. I should hardly know him, 
but for his eyes.” 

“ And you could never mistake them, any- 
where, ’ said Mr. Lewis. “ He’s going to be 
a fine looking man, if nothing happens to 
him. You had better go in and see him occa- 
sionally. Sadie looks after him; but she has 
other poor children on her hands, and we 
better help Johnny ourselves.” 

Warren Lewis entered his father’s store, 
and applied himself to business; shirking no 
duty, and claiming no privilege on account of 
his position. Those who looked to see him 
supercilious or arrogant, were agreeably dis- 
appointed. At Ins post, early and late, nothing 
escaped his observation. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


79 


“I’m disappointed in our boy, wife,” said 
Mr. Lewis, after Warren had been in the store 
about four months. 

“ How ? Why ? ” asked Mrs. Lewis, anx- 
iously, before her husband’s hearty laugh dis- 
pelled her fears. 

“I didn’t expect he’d take to work and 
business very well, at first j but Mr. Jewett 
says he’s the best clerk ,we ever had;” and 
as Mr. Jewett was senior partner of the firm, 
he was qualified to judge. “ I always knew 
there was enough to him to make most any- 
thing ; but I was a little afraid he’d take a 
wrong tack. He can’t do anything by halves ; 
and I believe ’twould kill mC if he should 
turn out as some of our young men do. But 
there’s no danger now ; and I tell you, wife, 
it’s a great relief to me to know it.” 

Mrs. Lewis could not be quite so sanguine, 
when she remembered her son’s former indis- 
cretions ; yet she rejoiced in the present, and 
hoped for the future. 


80 THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 

Meanwhile, the fashionable world was in 
the midst of a gay season; and Warren was 
invited, with his sisters, to numerous parties 
where few refused the sparkling wine. Mil- 
dred Lewis was willing to be singular that she 
might restrain her brother ; while Fanny , the 
elder and more worldly sister, yielding to 
family influence, never drank wine in his 
presence. The father thought all this un- 
necessary, hut accustomed to trust the judg- 
ment of his wife, uttered no protest. 

‘‘ It is well enough now,” he reasoned with 
himself. “ When Warren is older he will do 
as others do, and have judgment to know 
when he has gone far enough.” 

Some bantering there was, some challenges, 
and some smiling invitations not easily re- 
sisted; but the young man parried these 
lightly, without claiming that he acted from 
principle or previous decision. He had not 
forgotten Mr. W^olcott s terrible career, oi the 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 81 • 

pledge made by Harry Manson after the last 
interview with this unhappy man. 

“ I shall never while I live drink a glass 
of wine; and I will do all in my power to 
prevent others drinking.” 

“ Look out, Hal, you may wish to break 
that pledge,” he had then said. ‘‘It may 
be for your interest to do so.” 

“ Never ! ” was the decided reply. “ Never 
for my best interest. I wish you would make 
the same pledge, Warren. It would be worth 
a fortune to you.” ^ 

“ Pshaw ! that’s your way of talking ; ” 
answered the cousin. “ I shall bind myself 
by no such promises. It’s too childish for 
one who expects to live among men of the 
world. Nobody but you would think of such 
a thing.” 

“ I’ve heard of others ; ” Harry said. 

“ And more fools they. I don’t intend 
to join their ranks,” was Warren’s response. 


82 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


It was not, then, because he was pledged 
to abstinence that he refused to drink wine ; 
but because he had a fancy for so doing, 
at this time. He had no fears of becoming 
a drunkard, under any circumstances ; and 
although he seldom argued with Harry, he 
thought so much feeling fanatical and foolish. 
Yet there was his mother agreeing with 
Harry; and Sadie, carrying the matter still 
further. She did not hesitate to say that 
she considered liquor drinking the greatest 
evil in the worli* 

Warren was learning to love this cousin, 
so pure in her beauty and goodness; and 
denied himself many a fragrant cigar, that 
he might feel at liberty to seek her society. 
No smoking was allowed among the students 
at Holcombe ; but at home this indulgence 
was not under ban. Mr. Lewis, being him- 
self a smoker, rather enjoyed his son’s 
companionship in the habit. 


THE HER]^IT OP HOLCOMBE. 


83 


“ My gentleman was away during tlie 
winter ; but in his absence Johnny was com- 
forted by frequent visits from young Mr. 
Lewis, whose interest in the grateful boy 
increased with each visit. It was a pleasure 
to see the pale face flush, and the dark eyes 
flash beneath his gaze. A pleasure, too, to 
listen to the honest outpourings of a warm 
affectionate heart, rather than a dull round 
of civil speeches, containing neither wit nor 
wisdom’. 

“Pm learning as fast as I can,” was 
Johnny’s oft-repeated assurance. ‘‘ Miss Sa- 
die says if I am good, I shall have a house 
all my own, when I grow up. She says T 
can earn it. Does it really seem as though 
I could, Mr. Lewis ? ” he asked. 

“ It seems to me as though you could,” 
was the reply. “Don’t you believe every 
thing that Sadie tells you ? ” 

“Yes, sir; indeed I do,” answered the 


84 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


boy. “ She tells me a great many things ; 
and I believe every word ; but to believe that 
I shall ever have a nice house, all my own, 
is too much. I told mother it was just like 
a fairy story, the way we live now; and 
that would be too good.” 

No wonder the child thought the change 
in himself and his home like a fairy story. 
When in the spring, Paul and George Man- 
son invited him to walk with them to one 
of the public parks, and he could go dressed 
so that they were not ashamed of him, he 
no longer doubted Miss Sadie’s prophecy. 
As it chanced, he saw other boys who were 
lame; but of all, he thought himself hap- 
piest. *No one called him crutchy,” while 
many smiled upon him, reflecting the bright 
smile which lighted up his own face. 

‘^We might go round by Uncle Lewis’ 
Store, on our way home, if you aren’t too 
tired,” said Paul, after a time. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


85 


“ Oh, I ain’t a bit tired,” was the reply ; 
and soon after three boys looked in at the 
open door of a large establishment, where 
clerks and customers discussed' the market 
value of various kinds of goods. A lad was 
running from one to another, intent upon 
obeying orders, and all too much occupied 
to notice the young visitors. 

‘‘We can go in, if we don’t get in the • 
way,” said Paul, stepping inside the door. 

“ There’s cousin Warren,” he added, in a 
whisper. 

“ Shouldn’t you like to be in that boy’s 
place ? ” asked Johnny, when they had stood 
there for a few minutes. 

“ I don’t think I should,” was the reply. 
“I’d rather be out doors than shut up in 
the house. But he likes it.” 

To Paul and his brother this busy scene 
was nothing new ; but to their companion 
it was another glimpse of the fairy land 
of which he dreamed. 


86 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


What are you going to do when you 
grow up ? ” he asked, as they walked slowly 
home, and was not surprised at the answer 
that they should do just what brother Harry 
thought best. 

Holding an office which demanded his 
whole time and energy for the discharge of 
its duties, Mr. Manson was only too glad 
to trust the judgment of his eldest son in 
various matters pertaining to the interests of 
his family. And Harry was equal to the 
emergency. His abounding health, energy, 
cheerfulness and goodness, fitted him to bear 
responsibilities. “The more the better,” he 
was accustomed to say laughingly, seeming 
to banish pain and anxiety with his hearty 
words and magic touch. 

When he was at home, each day was 
counted a holiday. Greatly to the delight 
of all, he remained at home for several 
months, pursuing his studies, and making 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


87 


some trials of professional skill. Johnny 
was taken under his especial care ; and 
many another, poor and lame, learned to 
look for his coming as the weary look for 
rest. Ambitious to excel in his chosen pro- 
fession, he allowed nothing to distract his at- 
tention. His old companions complained that 
he gave them so little time ; while his cousin 
protested that he was more of a philanthropist 
than ever. 

“You ought to be the pioneer in some 
great reform, Hal,” he said. “ Your name 
should go down to posterity, linked with 
some grand work for the amelioration of 
human guilt and human suffering.” 

“If I may but do the work, another may 
bear the name,” was Harry Hanson’s sincere 
answer. “ Perhaps I shall come to you for 
money to help carry out my plans, yet. 
You know my silver spoon was plated while 
yours was of pure metal.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


I 


“ I hope to have my spoon of gold instead 
of silver, sometime,’’ Warren responded. 
‘‘ Do you know, Hal, I mean to be a very 
rich man.” 

“ And a very good one ? ” was asked in 
reply. 

“Oh, I mean to do about right,” the young 
man answered. “ I don’t make any pledges ; 
but I expect to come out as well as those 
who do. A man of the world should govern 
himself according to circumstances. Now 
don’t look at me that way, Hal,” he added, 
reproved by his cousin’s glance. “ You know 
I mean to be honest and honorable, and all 
that, if I don’t draw the .lines quite so 
straight as you do. I don’t think any one 
has had reason to complain of me, since I 
left Holcombe.” 

“ No, Warren ; every one commends you, 
and I hope to see you one of the merchant 
princes of the country. But I do wish you 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 89 

6 

would draw some lines a little straighter.'’ 
Both understood what lines were intended, 
yet neither would speak more plainly. 


I 


CHAPTER III. 


The ways diverge ; it may be far 
One sees, beyond the guiding star; 

Yet still it shines, serene and bright, 
Though passing clouds obscure its light; 
And blest are they who, trustmg God, 
Walk firmly in the narrow road. 


IX years '.had passed; and in his 
native city few doubted that War- 
ren Lewis would reach the goal of 
his ambition. Old men wondered 
at his prudence, young men at his applica- 
tion. His father was so proud of him, his 
mother so fond, and his sisters so confident, 
that where he was concerned they seldom 
questioned. 

His' father’s only regret in regard to him, 

90 



THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 91 

was that he remained unmarried, when he 
ought to have a good wife, and a home 
of his own. 

“ I don’t see through it,” said Mr. Lewis. 
“ The boy can’t have been refused, any- 
where, can he ? ” 

“I’ve never thought so,” was the reply 
of his mother. “ Because you were deter- 
mined to marry when you were only twenty- 
three years old, you seem to think every 
young man should follow your example.” 

“ No, wife, not quite so bad -as that,” said 
her husband, catching the mischievous twinkle 
in . her brown eyes. “ I was determined to 
be married when I was twenty-three, and the 
only thing about it I’m sorry for, is that 
I wasn’t married sooner. But here’s War- 
ren, with income enough to support a wife 
in good style, and not a sign of his being 
married as I can see, though he is most 
twenty -seven years old. I wish I knew 


92 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


what’s the matter. I’ve tried to talk with 
him about it, but he always dodges the 
subject.” 

Warren Lewis had not been refused, in 
the common acceptation of that term; but 
he had been wise enough to see that an 
incipient passion for his cousin Sadie wpuld 
never be returned, and governed himself ac- 
cordingly. When rallied upon his bachelor- 
hood, he answered according to his mood, 
gayly or gravely, as suited him ; while only 
Harry Manson suspected the truth. His sis- 
ters married, and established in happy homes, 
had manoeuvered, in a quiet way, to lure 
him into matrimony, but as yet, with no 
prospect of success. He seemed to think 
only of buying and selling. 

He devoted little time to travelling; but 
an opportunity for a western trip presented 
itself, which he was glad to improve. Some 
business in one of the lake cities required 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 93 

attention, and he was chosen to transact 
it. 

“ Act according to your own judgment 
in the matter,’’ said Mr. Jewett, the day 
before he was to leave. “ We trust you im- 
plicitly , and shall be satisfied with whatever 
you think best to do. Those western men 
are shrewd and sharp; but they go a little 
too fast, sometimes. I’ll risk you with them, 
though. Take your own time and enjoy it.” 

‘‘Yes, sir,” answered Warren, gratified 
with the gentleman’s expression of confidence, 
and anticipating much pleasure in the trip. 
He wished his cousin. Dr. Manson, to ac- 
company him, and had urged it, until con- 
vinced that no urging would avail. The 
doctor could not be absent from his patients, 
for so long a time, without injury to his 
profession ; and moreover, his silver spoon was 
only plated, even now. 

Many responsibilities had come to him; 


94 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


all of which he had borne bravely and cheer- 
fully ; but now, sorrowing for the death of 
his wife, it was hard to be either brave or 
cheerful. The fact that consumption had 
marked her, as its victim, before he had 
ever seen her, made his grief no less poignant. 
He had loved and cared for her, with the 
utmost tenderness; his love making more 
beautiful, a life already beautiful in itself, 
and giving him a rare, sweet experience 
he could never forget. He needed change 
and rest; but he denied himself these, as 
he often denied himself, when duty and in- 
clination were at variance. 

Seldom now, did he presume to caution 
or counsel the cousin, whose hand was still 
outstretched to receive a golden, spoon. “A 
man of the world,’' was a phrase often upon 
the lips of this young merchant; while he 
prided himself upon the coolness of his calcu- 
lations, and the certainty of their results. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 95 

As the representative of a wealthy eastern 
firm, he was welcomed in the west, by business 
acquaintances, who offered him every civility. 
He was welcomed to their homes ; he inspect- 
ed their stores, and listened to enthusiastic 
descriptions of the resources of their country. 

“ It’s a place for a young man to make 
money,” was the concluding remark of many 
with whom he conversed ; and this did not 
fail of its intention. Long before he had 
accomplished the purpose of his visit, he 
began to question seriously if it was not 
the place for him. 

He was a partner in the firm of Jewett, 
Lewis & Son ; ” but here, in a new country, 
he could make bolder ventures, with less 
competition. He was charmed with every- 
thing he saw. There was more room than 
in the east. The business men were younger, 
more sanguine, and more daring. Nothing 
occurred to impress him unfavorably ; and 


96 * 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


he returned home, with somewhat extrava- 
gant ideas of himself, and the section of 
country he had visited. 

In transacting the business, entrusted to him, 
he had done better for the firm than was 
expected. Mr. Jewett, with whom he was 
a great favorite, complimented him, in un- 
measured terms ; adding carelessly, Didn’t 
get the western fever out there, I hope.” 

“I am afraid I did,” was the reply. “I 
feel some symptoms Of it. I am satisfied 
that is just the place for me. There is a 
good opening for our business, in any one 
of the western cities I visited ; and with 
my knowledge of it, with the capital we 
have invested here, I could make twice 
the profits.” 

“ Perhaps you could, but there would be 
some risks.” answered Mr. Jewett. “ We 
are doing a good, safe business ; and in time, 
you’ll come in for a large share of it. We 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


97 


can’t spare you any way. Remember that, 
and don’t let the fever run too high.” 

Thus Mr. Jewett dismissed the matter ; 
but his partner found it more difficult. “ A nd 
you think you can do better there, than 
here,” said Mr. Lewis to his son, when the 
subject was under discussion. 

“ I am sure that I can,” was the reply, 
can do a great deal, with small capital, 
and in a few years, build up an extensive 
business. I have thoYight it all over, and 
calculated the chances, carefully. I saw 
young men there, not thirty years old, who 
have already made large fortunes ; and I 
understand business much better than they 
did, when they began. I’ve set my heart 
upon going there, father.” 

“ So I see,” replied the father, sadly. I’m 
sorry for it, and I’m afraid your mother 
will think it’s a bad move. If she does, 
I wish you’d hear to her. I never did anything 


98 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


against her advice, without being sorry for 
it.” 

But mother understands nothing about 
this,” replied Warren, smiling. “ She will 
see but one side of the question, and wish 
me to remain at home.” 

“ And I wish it, too,” said Mr. Lewis. 
“ I thought you considered yourself perma- 
nently established here.” 

“ So I did, father. But my western trip 
has entirely changed my ideas. I could do 
a great deal better there, while you and 
Mr. Jewett are perfectly able to carry on 
the business here. We could help each other 
too, in the way of trade, and so all be 
benefited. You would see the advantage 
of the change, for any other young man.” 

“ Pei’haps so,” was the reply. ‘‘ But money 
isn’t the only thing in the world, worth 
having.” 

When Warren Lewis appealed to his 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


99 


mother, he found that she had considered 
the question, not only upon one side, but 
all sides. His presence at home, was very 
dear to her, yet she was ready at any time, 
to sacrifice her own preference to his best 
good. She listened to him patiently, express- 
ing no doubt of his judgment, or ability. 

You see, mother, I could get rich there 
in half the time I can here;” he said at 
length. 

^‘That is very probable, my son,” she re- 
plied. But there are some things better 
than riches; and I am, by no means sure 
that you are the right one to go west. In 
some respects your principles are not so 
firm as they should be.” 

The young man understood this. His 
mother was a Christian; and he knew that 
far more than she desired for him any 
earthly good, did she desire that his life 
might be approved of God. Often had she 


100 THE HERMIT OF IpLCOMBE. 

told him that religion was the only safe- 
guard against temptation ; yet he had perfect 
confidence in his own powers of resistance. 
Of course he conformed his habits to those 
of the society in which he moved. Bound 
by no pledges, he acted according to cir- 
cumstances; and truth to tell, had preserved 
more of uprightness and honor than is usual 
for those who adopt his motto. But his 
mother saw danger. She knew his weak 
points, and dreaded the temptations to which 
he might be exposed in a different position. 
Dr. Manson, too, shared .the mother’s anxiety. 
He knew, even better than she, how a clear- 
headed, shrewd business man could be trans- 
formed into a reckless, over-confident specula- 
tor, yet Warren Lewis might escape the 
danger which threatened him, amid new 
surroundings and under new influences. Most 
of his acquaintances would have ridiculed 
the idea of danger. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


101 


Certain ‘it was that the experiment would 
he made, sooner or later, and his moral 
strength really tested. His father accustomed 
himself to the thought of living without 
his son, until he came to think more of the 
advantages of the proposed plan, than of 
it’s disadvantages. 

“ The distance between us wont be very 
great,” he said' to his wife. “ After all, I 
can’t blame the boy. What is called the 
west now, is going to be the very centre of 
our country ; and there’s no doubt but it’s 
the place for a ygung man to make his 
mark. Warren has made up his mind to 
go, and I shan’t oppose him any longer. 
I’ll do the best I can for him, and then he 
must do the rest for himself. I wish though, 
he was going to take a good wife with him. 
Such a girl now as Sadie, would be sure 
to keep him. right, just as you have me. 
And that makes me think, from some thing 


102 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


her mother said to me, this morning, I expect 
she is going to be married, before long.” 

Yes, she is,” answered Mrs. Lewis. “ And 
I think the man who is to be her husband 
is as nearly worthy of her, as any mortal 
can be.” 

“ He’s a widower, I hear,” said Mr. Lewis. 

‘‘ Yes ; but no worse for that,” was the 
reply. “ I have been waiting to congratulate 
her.” 

The gentleman, who would have consid- 
ered it a compliment to be thought nearly 
worthy of Sadie Manson, was a friend of her 
brother’s ; and one whom Harry thoroughly 
trusted. Having learned this, her uncle was 
ready to offer his congratulations with those 
of his wife. 

“So you are going to leave your father 
and mother, after all the trouble they’ve 
had in bringing you up,” he remarked to 
Sadie, when next they met. “ That’s the 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


103 


way; just as soon as children get to be of 
any use to us, they are off with some stranger 
or other, who, likely, don’t care half so much 
for them as we do. What do you think of 
that. Miss? Perhaps you haven’t thought 
anything about it, but I have. Both of our 
girls are gone, and Warren just ready for 
a start; so wife and I have got to keep 
house alone, same as we did at first.” 

A long speech this ; but everybody knew 
Uncle John was in good humor; he rubbed 
his hands so briskly, and laughed so heartily, 
at the close of his speech. 

“Then Warren is really going,” said Mrs. 
Manson, while Sadie attempted no reply to 
her uncle’s address. 

“ Yes, and pretty soon, too,” was answered. 
“ He received a letter, last week, that settled 
everything, and I suppose he’ll leave us by 
the first of next month.” 

It was no time, then, to expostulate ; but 


104 


THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Harry Manson could not allow his cousin to 
go, without making one more effort to change 
his views in regard to wine drinking. He 
was moved to repeat the questions which, 
with such startling earnestness, had be^n 
asked by the hermit of Holcombe, — “ What 
are you going to do about it, young man ? 
What are you going to do ? Did you ever 
see the wine sparkle when bright eyes chal- 
lenged you to drink?'' And then the warn- 
ings; — ‘‘Don't drink it. For God's sake, 
and your soul's sake, don't." 

“ I have always wished that you had been 
with me the last time I saw Mr. Wolcott," 
said Dr. Manson, breaking the silence which 
followed this repetition. 

“And I am glad I was not," replied his 
companion. “I never had any fancy for 
listening to the ravings of a madman. I 
am more than satisfied to take them at 
second-hand." 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


105 


‘‘But there was method in his madness,” 
responded the doctor, without appearing to 
observe the implied censure. You know 
that his intemperate habits were the cause 
of his ruin. ' A false woman and wine 
wrought his destruction.” 

“ And you really believe that, Hal ? ” 

“ I know it,” was answered, seriously. 

“ Well, perhaps you are right, though I 
am disposed to question it. It’s my opinion 
the man never had a very strong mind. 
One woman is not all the world, and a glass 
of wine is not the most dangerous of com- 
forters. You see, Wolcott ought to have 
gone to work with double energy, after he 
failed. , He might have retrieved his fortune, 
if he was half as smart as his friends pre- 
tended. Depend upon it, there was some- 
thing wrong about him to begin with. Wine 
is good in its place; and as most people 
drink it, the best way is to drink with them, 


106 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


and say nothing about it. I suppose it’s bad 
for some weak-headed ones, but they must 
look out foi% themselves.” 

“ And you don’t believe in trying to save 
them, Warren? You can’t mean that. I 
have more faith in your good sense and 
good feeling, than to believe you mean what 
you say.” 

‘‘Well, well, Hal, I won’t quarrel with 
you, for your good opinion of me, though 
I can’t agree with your quixotic notions. 
I am willing to admit, however, that you 
are better than I. Do you think there is 
danger of my being ruined by wine ? ” and 
the question was asked confidently, as though 
but one reply was possible. 

“ Of course you expect me to tell the 
truth,” said Harry. 

“ Of course ; ” and still the same confi- 
dence was manifested. 

‘‘Then I tell you, honestly, that I think 
tliere is danger, cousin Warren.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


lOT 


“ Hal Manson, how dare you say that to 
me?” exclaimed Waren Lewis. 

‘‘Because you asked me what I thought, 
and I would not wrong you by telling a 
falsehood. You can afford to hear the truth.” 

“ I can’t afford to be insulted,” was the 
2;0ply. Then, in a different tone, was added, 
“ Oh, Hal, how could you say that ? Do 
you really believe it?” 

“I do,” answered the doctor, sadly. “I 
know you drink wine.” 

“ But never to excess. I drink with others 
as a matter of civility j and sometimes I 
feel the need of a little stimulant.” 

“Oh, Warren, has it come to that?” 

“ Come to what ? I don’t see anything 
that demands such a look of holy horror. 
One would think I had confessed myself 
guilty of murder. I am able to regulate my 
own habits; and it is nothing strange for 
one to require stimulants. Don’t you ever 
make use of them in your practice ? ” 


108 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


I never prescribe them for people in 
good health,” was the reply. “ You need 
stimulants no more than I do.” 

“ Well, old fellow, don’t look at me in 
that way,” said Warren Lewis. “ I don’t 
want to quarrel with you, just as I am going 
away. If we can’t think alike about every- 
thing, we can at least agree to think differ- 
ently. That old hermit’s ravings must have 
turned your brain a little, on the subject 
of wine drinking. I believe in what some 
call an elegant use of wine ; but I abhor 
drunkenness with my whole soul. Why, doc- 
tor, there is hardly a business man in the 
city, would adopt your extreme whims. 
Father is very temperate, but then, it is to 
please mother.” 

Dr. Manson walked across his office floor, 
looked from the window a moment, and then 
reseated himself with the air of one who 
had made an important decision. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


109 


‘‘You have spoken truly of your father,” 
he said. “ Your mother’s influence saved 
him from threatened ruin. I have heard 
Aunt Ellen and my mother say, that but 
for his wife their brother would have been 
a drunkard. T would not have spoken of 
this, under other circumstances. I would 
give the best years of my future life to be 
assured that you would forswear wine drink- 
ink.” 

“ I will forswear it, whenever I am injured 
by it,” was the reply. “ At present I am in 
no danger ; ” and there was a coldness in 
this speech, which grated harshly on the 
listener’s ears. “It is time for me to go. 
Good-bye, doctor.” 

“ Good-bye, cousin Warren.” 

Their hands met. “ You’re a good fel- 
low, Hal,” Warren Lewis felt constrained 
to say. “ I wish I was as good as you are ; 
but we must each of us go his own way. 


110 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


If I needed a friend, I’d trust you against 
the world. Thank you, too, for all you’ve 
done for me ; and do try to think of me, 
at my best, even if we don’t agree about 
everything.” 

“ I shall always think of you, at your best, 
Warren, and if I can ever be of service to 
you, you have but to command me. Good- 
bye.” 

One went out, strong in health and am- 
bitious projects, confident of his ability to 
win a princely fortune. The other, looking 
forward anxiously, feared that manliness 
might be wrecked, ere the fortune was won. 

Warren Lewis stopped for a night at Hol- 
combe, on his way west ; and there expressed 
his hopes and wishes without reserve. Still 
the same. Money, position and influence, 
were talismanic words for him. 

“ Go west with me, and I will make a 
merchant of you,” he said to his cousin 
Ellis. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Ill 


“ But I don’t wish to be made into a mer- 
chant,” answered Ellis, laughing. “ Thank 
you, all the same, but I have no vocation 
for making money. I prefer a laboratory to 
a counting room, and retorts and crucibles 
to bills and ledgers.” 

Then you are really to be a chemist.” 

“ Yes, a chemist, a naturalist, and perhaps 
a star-gazer. You see I have a variety of 
tastes ; and father allows me to indulge them 
all, if I don’t confine myself too much in 
doors. Next winter I am going to spend a 
fe'w weeks at Uncle Manson’s, and then 
cousin Harry is to introduce me to some 
gentlemen who will teach me more than I 
can learn here.” 

‘‘Well, everybody to their own work,” re- 
sponded the young merchant. “ There’s Hal, 
doing his work so cheerfully, that I must 
admire him, while I wonder tliat he can 
tolerate such a life.” 


112 


THE HERMIT OE HOLCOMBE. 


I think everybody must admire cousin 
Harry,” Ellis replied. ‘‘ It seems to me he 
is nearly perfect. So good and loving; and 
yet so brave and strong. I was so sorry 
that he must lose his wife, when if anybody 
deserved a happy life, he does.” 

“ Yes ; but he knew his wife would live 
only a short time, when he married ; so her 
death was not unexpected. Not many men 
would have married as he did. Didn’t you 
think it strange, Aunt Ellen ? ” added War- 
ren, turning to Mrs. Farley. 

“ Not after seeing Amy, and knowing as 
I did, that she was as good as she was 
beautiful. It was like Harry to love *^her, 
and had it been possible for human skill to 
save her, •she would have glorified his life. 
Harry takes high rank as a physician, already. 
We owe him a great deal for what he has 
done for Ellis.” 

“And there is Johnny Carr, the most 


THE HERMIT* OF HOLCOMBE. 


118 


grateful fellow you ever saw in your life, 
and bidding fair to make a very smart man. 
My gentleman, as he calls Harry, gets most 
of the credit for this. Johnny has been in 
our store for more than a year, and I mean 
to have him West with me, sometime. He 
is to be depended upon.’^ 

Johnny Carr had heard of this plan for him- 
self; and with the eagerness, natural to his 
age and temperament, accepted it as sure 
to be realized, if his mother could be per- 
suaded to go with him. He would never 
leave her while she lived. His highest ambi- 
tion was to provide for her, so that she 
could dress handsomely, and fold her hands 
in elegant idleness. He had whiled away 
many a weary hour, in picturing to himself 
the home he would make for the dear, good 
mother, who had worked so hard for him. 

She, poor woman, felt herself amply repaid 
for all her labor, when she saw her son 


114 


THE HERMIT OF. HOLCOMBE. 


among liis fellows, so slightly lame, that 
it was. hardly observed, and knowing as she 
did, that he was worthy of confidence and 
respect. He had earned money in different 
ways, before entering the store of Mr. Lewis ; 
but there he received regular wages, and 
thought himself on the highway .to fortune. 

Warren was missed at the old stand ; yet 
gradually, matters adjusted themselves to 
the new order of things, and business went 
on as before. 

At the same time, a young merchant made 
his bow to a western community, and solicited 
a share of their patronage. His store was 
well located and judiciously stocked; while 
the gentlemanly proprietor was always visible 
to customers. He understood his business, 
and was not above giving it his attention. 
Of course he would succeed, as everybody 
said. People were not long in concluding, 
also that he would be popular in society. 


THE HERMIT *0F HOLCOMBE. 115 

There was just enough of reserve in his 
manner, under some circumstances, to inspire 
faith in his prudence. 

Mr. Lewis visited his son at the end of 
six months, and was half inclined to become 
a western merchant himself. ‘‘Now, father, 
don’t you believe what I told you?” was 
the question often asked him. 

“ I believe you did well to come here,” 
was the reply, upon one occasion. “It’s 
just the place for you; and if I was ten 
years younger, I’d come here myself. People 
move pretty fast, though ; and I can’t help 
thinking some of them live too fast. Your 
mother wouldn’t approve of some things I’ve 
seen.” 

“ Probably not,” responded Warren, with 
a blush, conscious that his father was observ- 
ing him closely. “ But ivith the Eomans, 
one must do as the Romans. Mother’s code 
of morals is very strict.” 


116 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


“None too strict, my son. I wish you 
had such a wife as she has been to me.’’ 

“ I wish,” commenced the young man, 
“but no matter. — There is something of 
more importance I wish to talk about, with 
you.” 

Buying, selling, and the chances of a 
rise in the market were the most important 
subjects of which they talked ; and when 
the visit had ended, Mr. Lewis felt con- 
fident of his son’s future. They had dis- 
greed upon only one point. The father 
wished to retain the services of Johnny Carr ; 
while the son wished to secure them for 
himself, offering to pay twice the wages the 
young clerk now received. 

“ I don’t think his mother will be willing 
he should come,” said Mr. Lewis, senior. 
“ She could hardly live without him, and 
it is too much to expect her to come here. 
I wish for your sake, however, that you had 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


117 


him, in place of that pale faced clerk of yours. 
I don’t like the looks of that face. If the 
owner don’t drink too much wine, and smoke 
too many cigars, I’m mistaken in my judg- 
ment of him.” 

‘‘ I am afraid you are right, father, and 
I have cautioned him once. But it don’t 
seem to be my business, as long as he never 
gives me any cause for complaint, here in 
the store. He is a good salesman, and strictly 
honest, so far as I can see. I don’t want 
Johnny in his place; but I am getting to 
need another clerk, and can afford to pay 
one good wages. I must write to him about 
it, and if he comes, that will make room 
in your store for Paul Manson.” 

The letter was written, within a few weeks ; 
but before it reached its destination, there 
was no mother to be consulted. She had 
died suddenly, and Johnny, left alone, desired 
to go to Warren Lewis. Of course Dr. Man- 


118 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


son read the letter, and considered the 
expediency of acceding to its request. His 
protege was really a remarkable boy. The 
discipline of suffering and patient waiting 
had developed traits of character, rarely seen 
in one so young. He had the implicit faith in 
God’s wisdom and justice which most people 
learn to exercise only after long lives of 
change and trial. It was this faith which 
gave to him such earnestness of purpose ; 
and which moved him to do, with his might, 
whatever his hands found to do. This faith, 
too, enabled him to bear the loss of his 
mother, with Christian resignation. 

Dr. Manson thought of all this ; giving him 
full credit for the sincere piety whicli mani- 
fested itself in the faithful discharge of every 
day’s duties. But was he so armed against 
temptation, that he would not fall into its 
insidious snares ? Would ho resolutely close 
eyes and ears to the fascinations, which lure 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


119 


so many to destruction ? Was it safe to test 
liis strength, where weakness would prove 
his utter ruin ? 

The doctor forgot that any one waited ^ 
for him to speak, until reminded by a slight 
movement of his companion. 

“I was thinking,” he then said. “You 
would like to go West.” 

“ Yes, sir. But I promised mother I would 
do as you'think best ; and if you say I ought 
not to go, I will stay where I am,” 

“ Contentedly ? ” 

“ Yes, sir,” was said, after some hesitation. 

“ Young Mr. Lewis wants me, and I should 
like to work for him ; but I can stay here.” 

“ And do you think it will be as easy 
for you to do right there as here ? ” 

“ I hope so, sir. At any rate, I must do 
right, whether it is hard or easy. I promised 
mother — ” But here tears choked his voice. 

“ Oh, Dr. Manson, I can never forget what 


120 


THE HEKMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


she told me, and what I promised her the 
daj before she died,” he continued. “She 
said I might tell you. My father was a 
drunkard,” he half whispered. “ It was that 
made mother so poor, and me so — ” He 
did not complete the sentence. His friend 
had suspected the truth; and knowing that 
children are often cursed by the sins of 
their parents, did not need that more be 
said. “ I promised her I would never, 
never, never taste- a drop of liquor, so 
long as I live. She made me repeat never 
three times, and call God to witness my 
promise. I never have tasted a drop of 
liquor, and now I never shall.” 

“But if you were in a large company, 
where everybody else drank wine, and you 
were urged to drink too, what then?” 

“ I should keep my promise, of course. 
Do you think I wouldn’t?” 

“No, John. I believe you would keep 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


121 


your promise. But most people would ridi- 
cule you for such abstinence. Warren Lewis 
drinks wine, without scruple.’’ 

“ But he isn’t a drunkard.” 

‘‘ No ; he is a temperate drinker. I pre- 
sume he would be considered a very temper- 
ate drinker. Most of the young men, with 
whom you will come in contact, will probably 
urge you to drink with them.” 

But I shan’t drink if they do urge me,” 
said John, decidedly. ‘‘I shan’t mind what 
they say, either.” 

Long, Dr. Manson and his companion 
talked ; the latter revealing, with every 
word, some warning given^ by his mother. 
In her last hours, Mrs. Carr had spoken 
freely of many things, in regard to which 
John had often wondered. Her history was 
like that of many a woman, who, bound to 
one, every way unworthy of her, is dragged 
down from one degree of wretchedness to 


122 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


another, until death releases her from slavery. 
Only love for her child made existence tol- 
erable. For him she worked when she would 
not have worked for herself : her heart grow- 
ing harder, with each succeeding year, until 
she made the acquaintance of Mrs. Manson. 
Since then, everything had changed. Re- 
ligion had beautified her life, making her 
home the very gate of heaven, through which 
she passed to that upper home, where comes 
neither sorrow nor sighing. 

It seemed to Dr. Manson, as he listened 
to a recital of her last counsels to her son, 
that she had left nothing for another to say ; 
and although he ventured some suggestions, 
which were kindly received, he felt them 
to be unnecessary. Then they came back to 
the question to be decided. Should John, 
as his companions were learning to call him, 
go West? Objections lost their significance, 
when considered in connection with the 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


123 


pledges he had given, and the principles 
he had adopted. 

“You may be able to serve my cousin in 
other ways than as a clerk,’’ said the doctor. 
“ I know you will have his best good always 
at heart.” 

“Yes, sir, I will,” was the reply. “I 
will pray that he may become a Christian. 
Next to you, I owe more to liim than to 
any one else, except my mother. He has 
been very kind to me.” 

A call for the doctor’s professional services 
interrupted this conversation, and in the days 
which intervened, before John Carr left for 
the West, there was opportunity for little 
more than an exchange of good-byes. 

Warren Lewis welcomed the young man, 
explained his duties, and assured him that 
he would soon feel quite at home. 

“ A little strange at first,” said the mer- 
chant. “ You’ll miss JJr. Jewett, and father ; 


124 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


but we get more elbow room here, and live 
faster than they do.’’ 

John was quick to learn his duties, and 
ready to perform them ; but there was some 
difficulty in regard to his boarding-place. 

He was not satisfied with the one which 
had been provided. Indeed, after a short 
trial, he refused to be associated in any way, 
with those into whose society he was thrown. 
He could not tolerate the roystering manners 
and questionable conversation of young men, 
who thought themselves his superior, because 
they knew more of vice and dissipation. 

His employer had not thought of this 
want of sympathy, although he reproached 
himself for thoughtlessness at the first men- 
tion of John’s dissatisfaction. “Of course 
you shall change,” he said. “ I wish you to 
be contented and happy, and if you can’t 
be so, in one place, you must in another. 

But really, I don’t know how to select for 

# 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


125 


you. Suppose you try for yourself. In a 
few weeks you will learn enough of the 
people and places, about you, to make a 
proper selection. Don’t get homesick, John- 
ny,” he added, addressing him by the old 
name. “I know you must be lonely.” 

Poor John was almost ready to wish him- 
self back in the old place. He was so lonely ; 
a ■ stranger in a strange city. He had left 
a pleasant circle of acquaintances ; while 
here, he was only Mr. Lewis’ clerk.” 

“ A real parson,” said one of his fellow 
boarders, who might profitably have copied 
his example. 

He’ll get over that,” said another, laugh- 
ing scornfully. 

“ Don’t you believe it,” was the reply. 

Any fellow that can read his Bible and pray 
before folks, as he does, without blushing, 
don’t get over it so easy. I tell you he’s 
a real Puritan, dyed in the wool. But he’s 


126 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


smart though. Jefts says he is posted in 
busiiiess. Got eyes in the back side of his 
head, too ; and it’s my opinion he’ll use them 
to good advantage.” 

‘‘ Jefts don’t like him ; does he ? ” 

‘‘ Yes and no, both. He can’t find any 
fault with him, any more than we can; but 
the whole story is, he aint one of our kind. 
Mr. Lewis would trust him against anybody.” 

“ Well, never mind that. We’ve talked 
enough about Carr for once. He’s well 
enough in his place, and that’s an old fash- 
ioned prayer meeting ; ” and this last remark, 
which was thought to be very witty, called 
forth a shout of laughter. 

Had John Carr heard it, he would have 
said, with a pleasant smile, you are right 
in regard to the prayer meeting. It is just 
the place for me.” While his character was 
thus discussed, he was in his place ; at home, 
with Christians. Joining with them in prayer 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


127 


and praise, he felt himself -no longer alone. 
Kind faces beamed upon him; and stranger 
though he was, a bond of fellowship was 
acknowledged. 

For a few days he boarded in the house 
with Mr. Lewis, where, being the youngest 
of the family, he was treated with great 
consideration. After this, having become ac- 
quainted with a young man, of like tastes 
as his own, who lived with his mother 
in a pleasant part of the city, he preferred 
a home with them ; and arrangements being 
made satisfactory to all, he took possession 
of a room, which had been fitted up expressly 
for him. 

‘‘Contented now?” asked his employer, 
soon after this change had been affected. 

“ Yes, sir, I am,” was the reply. “ Mrs. 
Barton seems almost like my own mother, 
and I feel perfectly at home.” 

“ I am glad to hear that,” responded Mr. 


128 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Lewis, heartily. “I ought to have remem- 
bered that you are different from most others 
of your age.” 

“ How am I different, sir ? ” asked John. 
‘‘ I hope I am not less willing to work and do 
my duty.” 

“You are more willing to do your duty, 
and just there is the difference,” was an- 
swered. “I congratulate myself upon having 
one clerk I can trust, without reserve. I 
know you miss your old friends, but I intend 
to do well by you, and you will soon make 
other friends. I suppose you hear from Paul 
Manson.” 

“ Yes, sir ; and he likes his place in the 
store very much. He can be trusted any- 
where.” 

“I know he can. All of Aunt Manson’s 
children are models of truth and sincerity. 
The doctor was always a wonder in that 
way.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


129 


“He is so good,” was the reply. “I re- 
member just how he looked, the first time I 
ever saw him. My gentleman seemed to me 
an angel then. Paul says he has so much 
business, he hardly gets time to eat or sleep ; 
and his mother thinks he ought to go away 
and rest. I wish he would come out here.” 

“We must invite him to come, when we 
can make a better display of goods and 
profits,” said Warren Lewis. “ By the way, 
did you see Jefts, last evening ? ” 

“ No, sir ; I never saw him in the evening,” 
replied John. 

“ I thought he didn’t look quite right this 
morning, when he came in. Did you observe 
it ? ” continued the merchant. 

“ Yes, sir ; and I heard him say he had 
a severe headache.” 

“ I presume he had. I wish you could 
manage to talk with him about some of his 
habits. He is very active, and I should be 


/ 


180 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


sorry to part with him ; but I am afraid ho is 
injuring himself.’’ 

Mr. Lewis knew what he professed to fear ; 
yet he would not speak more explicitly. 
Albert Jefts was never absent from the store, 
during business hours, and never remiss in 
his duties. If dissipated, as no one could 
doubt who saw him, he, as yet, held himself 
in check, with a firm hand. Having few 
sympathies in common with him, the new 
clerk had been satisfied to meet him on 
strictly business terms. 

When alone, John Carr thought of what 
had been said, wondering if it were possible 
for him to influence this young man to live 
differently, 

In less than a Aveek, Albert Jefts came into 
the store a full hour later than usual. His 
face was flushed, and his eyes were bloodshot- 
ten. When walking, he sometimes reached 
out his hand, as if for support. Often he 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


131 


raised his hand to his forehead, as though 
brushing from it something which troubled 
him. Pie paused abruptly in what he was 
doing, his mind seeming to be pre-occupied. 
As the day wore on, he appeared less able to 
control himself; but business crowded, and 
Mr. Lewis had no time to look after his 
clerks. 

About one hour before the store was to 
be closed, a customer came in to say that the 
goods he had just received were not such as 
he had bargained for. “ They come short 
both in quantity and quality.” The complaint 
was made to Mr. Lewis. 

“ The mistake shall be rectified,” he said, 
blandly. “ You shall have no cause for dis- 
satisfaction. It is the first complaint of the 
kind, I have heard ; and I will make sure of 
its being the last.” 

So far as the customer was concerned, this 
difficulty was easily settled ; but the clerk who 


132 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


had caused it would be held to strict account. 
’No questions^ however, were asked, until the 
next morning, when Jefts was summoned to 
the private office of his employer. 

‘‘ I made the mistake yesterday,” said the 
young man, hurriedly. “ My head was wrong, 
and I ought to have been in bed, instead of 
being here. I am very sorry for what hap- 
pened, and hope you will pardon me. I be- 
lieve it is my first offence.” 

“ Yes, it is,” answered the merchant, sur- 
prised at this abrupt confession, made before a 
charge had been preferred. “ I am quite 
ready to pardon you ; but if you were unable 
to attend to youf duties, you should have given 
yourself a day’s rest. I am afraid, Jefts, that 
you are living too fast. I wish you would do 
differently.” 

“ Yes, sir ; I must do differently. Are you 
satisfied with me here ? ” 

“ Certainly. Yet I should be sorry to have 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


138 


another mistake like that of yesterday. I 
think we understand each other.’’ 

“ Yes. sir ; ” and Jefts bowed himself from 
the room. In his confusion, he stumbled upon 
John Carr, who apologized for being in the 
way. “ I was in the way myself,” he replied. 
“ I believe I am in everybody’s way ; and in 
my own, most of all.” 

This last was said so bitterly, that John 
caught .the hand of the speaker, and held it 
fast, saying, Can’t I help you ? I wish I 
could. I have needed so much help myself, 
that I am always wishing to help others.” 

But what if I don’t need help ? ” asked 
Jefts, in a tone the coldness of which belied 
the expression of his face. 

“ You are different from other people, if you 
never need help,” was the reply. 

‘‘I am different ; ” and the laugh which 
supplemented this was as full of bitterness and 
mockery as that of any sin-hardened wretch. 


134 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


No more could be said at that time ; but at 
night, John Carr walked down the street, with 
Albert Jefts, although aware that his company 
was not desired. Twice they encountered a 
flashily-dressed, sinister-looking man, who 
bowed with easy confidence at each meeting. 

“ Who is he ? ” asked John. 

‘'Would you like to make his acquaint- 
ance ? ” was asked, in reply. " He is an 
admirer of young men,, if they have plenty of 
money. Pardon me,” added the speaker, 
changing his tone, “ I am out of sorts, this 
evening. That man is a scoundrel ; ” and he 
glanced around furtively, as though fearing to 
be overheard. 

“ He looks like it,” said John. “ I have no 
wish to make his acquaintance. I only 
thought it strange that such a man should bow 
to you.” » 

“ You d think some other things stranger 
still. But, Carr, what are you going this way 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


135 


for ? You’ll have a long walk, before you get 
to your boarding-place ; and I don’t think my 
company is so agreeable that you can care for 
it.” 

I don’t think you are well to-night,” was 
the evasive reply. 

“I am able to take care of myself, at any 
rate; and you might as well let me go,” 
answered Jefts. “ I’ve no doubt you mean 
well; but you can’t help me.” 

‘‘ I can pray for you.” 

“ Carr, do- you pray ? ” 

‘‘ Yes ; ” and the earnest face grew still 
more earnest. ‘‘I can, and do pray. Else, 
how could I live ? ” 

The two young men were standing at the 
corner of a retired street, during the last of 
this conversation, and John Carr was about 
bidding his companion good-night, when he 
saw the man who had been called a scoun- 
drel, coming toward them. ‘‘ There he is, 
again.” 


136 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


“ Yes ; the villain ! 1 wish to heaven I 
could be rid of him. He will drive me to 
desperation. Come to my room if you’ve 
nothing better to do. He is waiting to see 
me alone.” Another bow, with a smile which 
was meant to be insinuating, and the scoun- 
drel passed them. ‘‘ I believe he is the devil 
in disguise, and a thin disguise, too,” said 
Jefts, in a low tone. 

They walked on in silence, until their des- 
tination was reached. Jefts unlocked the 
door of his room, the air of which was foul 
with the fumes of tobacco and liquor, “ Hor- 
rid, isn t it ? ” he exclaimed, throwing open 
the windows, and clearing a chair, which he 
offered to his guest. I had forgotten things 
were so bad, or I wouldn’t have asked you 
to come here. I don’t suppose you’ll wonder 
at my headaches, after this.” 

“I wonder that you can live,” was the 
frank reply. “How can you?” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


13T 


“ Oh, IVe got used to it. We all have 
to.” This was said with affected careless- 
ness ; but the speaker was in no mood for 
trifling, as his next remark proved. “ Now, 
Carr, we are alone, and the door is locked. 
I believe my head is tolerably clear, too ; 
and if you have no objections to talking, I 
should like to know what made you come 
my way to-night, instead of going to your 
boarding-place.” 

So much depended upon the reply to this, 
that time was taken for consideration. 

‘‘ Do you wish me to tell you the truth ? ” 
at length asked John Carr. 

“Yes,” and there was such intensity of 
expression in this single affirmative, that it 
needed no repetition. 

“Because I thought you were unhappy, 
and I longed to > do something to help you. 
I didn’t like to intrude myself upon you, 
but there was no other way ; you wouldn’t 


138 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


ask me to walk with you. I couldn’t sleep 
last night, for thinking of you ; so I prayed 
that your heart might be inclined to me.’” 

“ Have you a father and mother, Carr ? ” 

“ No, I am an orphan. My mother died 
about four months ago.” 

Have -you any sister ? ” 

‘'No; neither brother nor sister. I am 
alone in the world. Mr. Lewis was very 
kind to me, when I was a poor, lame boy; 
and that is why I came here to work for 
him. Everybody has been kind to me.” 

And you have been kind to yourself,” 
said Albert Jefts. I am an orphan; but 
I have a little sister who loves me better 
than all the world beside. If it hadn’t been 
for her, you wouldn’t have seen me in the 
store to-day. Look there,” and he pointed 
to a vial marked “ Laudanum.” “ I intended 
to drink that last night, but the thought 
of Daisy prevented me.” 



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THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


139 


<4 Why ! you wouldn’t kill yourself ! ” cried 
John, in a tone of horror. 

“I wished to kill myself,” was the cool 
reply. “ It would have been the best thing 
for me; but little Daisy would miss her 
darling brother, and bad as I am, I couldn’t 
leave her. I do need a friend,” was added 
after a short pause. But I don’t see how 
you could help me, even if I should tell 
you all.” 

For the next quarter of an hour, only 
sobs were heard in that room. Not a word 
was spoken until John Carr said solemnly, 
“Let us pray.” Kneeling, he urged that 
all sins might be forgiven, and all sorrowing 
hearts comforted. He prayed, too, most 
earnestly for the friend whose path was be- 
set with dangers. “ Do trust me,” he said 
to this friend,’ wh.en he rose from his knees. 

“I will,” was the welcome response. 
“ God has sent you to me.” 


140 


THE HEBMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Hour after hour went by ; and still the 
two remained in close consultation. No one 
was admitted, although there were severah 
calls for Mr. Jefts. At first he talked, while 
his companion only listened. He told his 
story; the story of thousands of the young 
men of our country, difiering perhaps in 
ils details, yet the same in substance. Wine 
drinking and card playing had been his 
ruin. Moderate drinking created an appetite 
which demanded gratification. Small sums 
of money were staked to give zest to the 
game of cards. The fact that he had an 
income, independent of his salary, made him 
a desirable companion for such as waste their 
time in riotous living. 

Lower and lower he had fallen, until in 
an evil hour, maddened with liquor, and a 
sense of his own degradation, he staked his 
entire property. A professional gambler, with 
the manners of a gentleman, won the game, 


/ 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 141 

yet with rare generosity, allowed him one 
more opportunity to retrieve his fortune. 
Again he lost, to find himself in the power 
of one, merciless as the grave, and more 
cruel than death. 

Never, in all his downward career, had he 
wronged his employers. His keen sense of 
honor, which dissipation had not destroyed, 
prevented this. But now he must have 
money, and trusting to his previous honesty 
to screen him from suspicion of intentional 
wrong, he had delivered the goods of which 
complaint was made. If the goods were ac- 
cepted, as according to contract, he intended, 
in some way, to secure the profits of the 
transaction. But this scheme failed, in the 
outset, and as he told John, he was thankful 
that it did, let come what nkiglit ; adding, “ I 
have no doubt that I should have betrayed 
myself before I was through with it. 

Now, I have told you all, and you can’t 


142 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


help me. That scoundrel has me fast, soul 
and body ; and there is no way of escape. 
You caiit help me, Carr. I know you would, 
if you could. I don’t think I’d have told any 
one else.” 

How John Carr longed for the presence 
and aid of Dr. Manson. Then he thought of 
his employer, and said, Go to Mr. Lewis, 
and tell him all about it. He can help 
you.” 

“ And so lose my place. Indeed, I can’t 
do that. You don’t .suppose he’d ever trust 
me again.” 

“ I think he would,” replied John. “I am 
sure he would,” was added, directly. “ Let 
me tell him.” 

“I can’t, I can’t!” exclaimed Albert 
Jefts. “ Don’t ask me to do that. Carr, I 
charge you, as you hope for heaven, never 
taste of wine. It has mined me. Oh, Daisy, 
darling, if it were not for you, I would end my 
wretched life this very night.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


143 


‘‘ And are you prepared to die ? ” asked his 
companion, with streaming eyes. 

Prepared to die ! Prepared to die ! ” re- 
peated the wretched man. “ For God’s sake, 
don’t ask me such a question. I am pre- 
pared for nothing. Tell me what to do.” 

“ Promise me never to touch wine or cards 
again, while you live, and ask God to help you 
keep the promise.” 

“ Bless you for saying that, Carr. I’ll 
make the promise, and do my best to keep it. 
But you don’t know what I have to fight 
against,” he added, after a short pause. 

It’s of no use ; I should only perjure myself, 
and I’ve enough to answer for already. I 
can’t give up drinking. Let me go my own 
way, Carr. It won’t be long, and there isn’t 
enough good left of me to be worth saving.” 

But John was not thus to be dismissed. 
Having found the way to the heart of his com- 
panion, he continued to plead, until the de- 


144 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


sired promise and permission were given. 
Prayer consecrated new resolutions, and hope 
once more illumined a pathway, beset with 
danger. 


CHAPTER lY. 


The ways diverge ; one path is wide, 

With flashing lights on every side, 

Whose fitful gleams hut half reveal 
The dangers darkness would conceal ; 

Yet still moves on the careless throng, 

With laugh and jest and mirthful song. 

NLY the servants were astir in the 

house, when a rap on the door of his 

/ 

room roused Warren Lewis from 
his morning slumbers. “ What is 
wanted ? he asked. 

“ I wish to see you,’’ was the reply. 

“ Oh! Johnny, is it ? I will see you in a 
minute ; ” and wondering much what could 
have brought him at so early an hour, Mr. 
Lewis admitted the visitor. “ Any trouble, 
Johnny ? ” 



145 


146 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ Yes, sir ; I came to talk with you about 
Mr. Jefts. He is in trouble, and thinks there 
is nobody to help him ; but I told him you 
could,’’ was the straightforward reply. “ I 
know you would be kind, as you always are. 
You won’t send him off, will you ? ” " 

“ Not unless he has. done something for 
which I ought to dismiss him.” 

“ But if he has done wrong, and is sorry for 
it, you won’t send him off. You know we 
all do wrong, sometimes, Mr. Lewis.” 

“Yes, Johnny, I know it, and I’ll remem- 
ber it. But I don’t know what Jefts has done 
yet. Did he send you to me ? ” 

“ No, sir, I begged him to let me conie. * I 
have been with him ever since we left the 
store, last night.” 

“ Hav’n’t you been to your boarding place ? ” 
“No, sir, I couldn’t leave Jefts, and I 
didn’t care for anything to eat.” 

' “ And hav’n’t you eaten anything since you 
left the store ? ” 


147 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

“No, sir, but no matter about that. I 
want you to treat Jefts just as you would 
treat me, if I was in hiS place. He has no 
father or mother; only a little sister, who 
would be so grieved, if he was disgraced. 
You will help him, wont you ? ” 

“I will do all in my power to help him,’’ 
said Mr. Lewis, seriously. “ Now, tell me 
what help he needs.” John commenced 
speaking ; but was soon interrupted. “ I 
wish you would send Jefts to me. Tell him 
to come, and we can have everything settled 
before night. That rascally gambler shall 
give up every claim he has upon him. And 
Johnny, you go home and get some breakfast. 
Mrs. Barton will be anxious about you.” 

Albert Jefts was in an agony of suspense, 
during the absence of his friend. One mo- 
ment he hoped, the next he despaired. Now 
ruin stared him in the face, then, with a 
sudden revulsion of feeling, he looked for- 


148 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


ward to a happy, honorable life. Everything 
depended upon an interview he regretted, so 
soon as he was left alone. But the first 
glance at John’s face reassured him, and 
preparing to answer the summons of Mr. 
Lewis, he said, “ I am going to tell the whole 
truth and accept my fate. Nothing can be 
worse than what I have suffered the last 
week. If I am not in the store to day, come 
here this evening.” 

‘‘Yes, but I am sure you will be in the 
store,” was the cheerful reply. ‘‘lam going 
with you to see that you find the way.” 
He went to the door of Mr. Lewis’ room, 
waited to see that the young man was cordially 
received, and then hurried to his boarding 
place. 

Albert Jefts^made a full confession of his 
misdeeds; keeping back nothing, palliating 
nothing. “I don’t suppose you’ll want me 
in the store any longer,” he said, with great 


^ THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 149 

effort, after waiting in vain for some response 
to his communication. 

“I wouldn’t have you leave, upon any 
account,” answered Mr. Lewis. “ Excuse me. 
I was considering how to deal with Romney. 
We must find a way to get back your notes, 
and save your property.” 

“And are you going to forgive my dis- 
honesty ? ” 

“ Certainly. You were sorely tempted, and 
we are none of us perfect. Never mention 
it to me again. I shall trust you in the 
future, as • I have in the past. Come into 
the store, this morning, as usual ; that is, if 
you are able to come. You are not looking 
well. Take a glass of wine. It will do you 
good.” 

“ No, sir. I have promised never to taste 
of wine again. It has been the curse of my 
life.” 

Mr. Lewis stayed his hand at this, saying? 


150 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Then you do well to abstain from it. It 
has never injured me. When it does, I shall 
follow your example. Did you fast last 
night ? ” 

^ Yes, sir, but I never thought of it. I 
was too wretched to care for eating. I don’t 
care for breakfast, either.” 

“But you must eat, nevertheless. When 
did you see Eomney?” 

“ Last evening. He passed me on the 
street three times, and came to my room 
afterwards; but I wouldn’t admit him. He 
wishes to leave town, and is anxious for a 
settlement.” 

“ Tell me where to find him, and I will 
settle with him, if you will give me author- 
ity.’’ 

The merchant’s sympathy was strongly en- 
listed for his clerk, at the same time that 
his sense of justice was outraged by. the 
conduct of Romney, the gambler. Asking 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


151 


neither pledge nor promise, he counseled 
moderation and temperance. His companion 
would go further. Abstinence and temper- 
ance should be sjnonomous terms. Modera- 
tion should be constant self-denial. 

“ I’ll not dispute the point with you,” 
said Mr. Lewis. ‘‘ If you err, it is on the 
safe side ; and every man must judge for 
himself. If total abstinence is necessary for 
you, you will do well to abide by it.” 

‘‘It^s necessary for me ; and begging your 
pardon, Mr. Lewis, I think it is necessary 
for most people,” was the reply. 

As may be imagined, Albert Jefts cared 
no more for eating than he did the previous 
evening. Yet he made his appearance at 
the breakfast table, and thus avoided disa- 
greeable questions. He restored his room to 
something like order, congratulating himself 
that his supply of liquor and cigars was 
exhausted. On his way to the store he 


152 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


countermanded an order given the previous 
day ; and then felt that he was fairly com- 
mitted to an entire change of habits. 

In his sorrow and remorse he had hardly 
thought of what this change might cost 
him. The battle with his appetite, the ridi- 
cule of old companions, the lassitude which 
would be sure to oppress him ; — all these he 
had forgotten. Morning, noon, and night, 
there would be the restless craving for an 
accustomed stimulant. How long the torment 
might endure, he knew not. Days, weeks, 
and months might go by, and he never at rest. 

It did not occur to him, however, that he 
could perjure himself ; that he could, at any 
moment, turn back to the old way. His 
pledges had been made too solemnly for this. 
There was only one path for him, if so be, 
God should spare his life. 

In his walk, he encountered John Carr, 
who said, cheerfully, ‘‘ You are early, this 
morning.’^ 


THE HERMIT O?' HOLCOMBE. 


153 


“ Yes. There is a great deal to be done at 
the store to-day, and I told. Mr. Lewis I would 
do the work of two. He is to be away part of 
the forenoon.” 

“ And everything is all right, Jefts ? ” 

“ All right,” was the response. Some- 
time, I will tell you more.” 

Before night, there was more to tell. Mr. 
Romney had been visited, and induced to re- 
linquish his claims against Albert Jefts. At 
first, he refused to do this ; but finding him- 
self confronted with the law, he made a virtue 
of necessity, and at parting bowed politely, 
expressing the hope that his friend, Mr. Jefts, 
would be satisfied with the arrangement. 
Alone, he ground his teeth in impotent rage, 
vowing vengeance upon those who had thus 
outwitted him. 

‘‘ You must be on your guard,” remarked 
Mr. Lewis to his clerk, after reporting his 
success. Romney is an unscrupulous vil- 


154 


THE HEEMIT, OP HOLCOMBE. 


lain. He’ll have his eye on you, and if you 
fall into his clutches again, he’ll not allow 
you to escape.” 

“ I shouldn’t deserve to escape,” answered 
Jefts, in a husky voice. “How can I ever 
repay you for saving me from him this once ? 
I could go down on my knees to thank you.” 

“ No ! No ! ” exclaimed Mr. Lewis, his own 
voice faltering, as he prevented his companion 
from falling at his feet. “ Give me your 
hand, and let us be friends for life.” 

Did Warren Lewis think of danger, that 
evening, when, after draining one glass of 
rich, red wine, he denied himself the second, 
which his appetite craved ? Did the possi- 
bility that this appetite might, one day, be- 
come his master, suggest itself? If so, he 
banished the thought, as unworthy of one who 
held his destiny in his own hand. He knew 
how his cousin. Dr. Manson, would regard 
him ; but this cousin was over-scrupulous. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


155 


Yet not more so than John Carr, who, 
having commenced a good work with his fel- 
low clerk, resolved to persevere. Tempta- 
tion which could not be avoided, must be met 
and resisted ; but it is no part of wisdom to 
court temptation. At the instance of his 
newly-found friend, Albert Jefts decided to 
withdraw himself from the influences which 
had surrounded him, and Mrs. Barton con- 
sented to receive him into her family. 

No secret was made of the reasons which 
induced him to make this change ; and sneer 
as they might, not one of his acquaintances 
but honored him for abandoning a career 
which tended to ruin. 

“ Let him go,” said one, with a mocking 
laugh. “There are enough of us left. He 
always fetched up in the middle of a jollifi- 
cation, declaring he had gone far enough. 
For my part, I think we are well rid of 
him. Spent most of his money , if I m any 
judge. Romney got a good share of it.” 


156 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


I’m sorry if he did,” said another, with 
an oath. “Jefts is too good a fellow to be 
fleeced by that scoundrel. He was the best 
of us all ; but I can’t say I’m sorry he’s ' 
left us. There are enough of us to go to 
the devil, without him. Let us drink to his 
success. May he never taste wine, while 
grapes grow and water runs.” 

A strange sentiment was this, for such a 
company ; but the more incongruous, the 
more jolly ; and nothing could have been re- 
ceived with greater favor. Yet scarcely had 
the empty glasses rung upon the table, when 
one ventured to prophecy that Jefts would 
be with them at their next meeting. 

‘‘ Don’t you believe it ? ” was the excla- 
mation, in reply. “He ain’t made of that 
kind of stuff. I’ve, seen him. But what 
need of telling ? You’ll find out what he'll * 
do. There ain’t one of us can begin to 
match him, where will is concerned. He’d' 


THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


157 


die before he’d drink again ; and I wish I 
had the pluck to follow his example.” 

This last remark was greeted with strong 
expressions of dissatisfaction. A second de- 
sertion from their ranks could not be borne ; 
and loud were their songs in honor of the 
jolly god at whose shrine they worshipped. 
“A short life, and a merry one,” they shouted, 
little dreaming of the woe pronounced upon 
those who tarry long at the wine ; and seeing 
not the hand-writing on the wall, which 
doomed one of their number to an early 
and sudden death. 

Scarce two weeks from this time, he whose 
laugh rang loudest, and whose glass was 
oftenest drained, in a fit of intoxication, 
missed his footing, and falling a great dis- 
tance, was crushed out of the very semblance 
of humanity. “ A sad providence,” this 
death was called? but it was a providence 
for which the victim himself was account- 


158 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


able. Such suicides are frequent in our 
land : — how frequent, will be known only 
when all secrets are revealed. 

Oh, who will sound the note of warning, 
which echoing from headland to mountain 
peak, sweeping from the bleak fields of the 
north to tlie fair savannas of the south, 
shall rouse us, as a people, to a sense of 
our danger ! 

Often was Harry Manson moved to such 
a cry as this. Often did his heart stand still, 
for very horror, at the crime and misery 
wrought by the demon of intemperance. In 
high life and low life, in stately mansion 
and crumbling hovel, were traces of its pres- 
ence. Still, men talked of moderation, self- 
control, and manly freedom, as opposed to 
abstinence and conscientious regard for the 
good of community. 

As a physician. Dr. Manson saw the skele- 
ton in many houses ; sometimes concealed by 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


159 


heavy folds of damask, and silken drapery ; 
and sometimes, alas, hidden only by 6ucli flim- 
sy screen as woman in her poverty and degra- 
dation might interpose. Wherever he went, 
he was the champion of temperance ; using 
authority, where this was fitting, and persua- 
sion when he had no other resource. In 
his home, his father’s house, he was as ever 
its pride and joy, although each day renewed 
his sense of personal bereavement. 

His brothers, emulating his virtues, gave 
promise of usefulness in their chosen voca- 
tions. Uncle John Lewis said Paul was a 
“ perfect treasure,” and sure to be a success- 
ful merchant. George, too, was winning his 
first laurels. Ai^i the sisters. Harry said 
they were the dearest in the world ; and he, 
surely, had some opportunity to know whereof 
he affirmed. 

To Mrs. Lewis, they were as daughters, 
seldom a day passing when her lonely house 


160 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


was not gladdened by their presence. “I 
believe I shall adopt you/’ she said, during 
one of their visits. 

‘‘ But, auntie, then there will be no girls 
at home. What would father and mother 
and brother Harry do without us ? ” 

‘‘ I don’t know,” was the reply. “ I was 
thinking only of myself. I wish Warren had 
been contented to stay with his father ; ” and 
this wish, so often expressed, was supple- 
mented with a sigh. 

She could not sympathize with her hus- 
band’s ambition that their son should amass 
a princely fortune. She cared little for this, 
if he might be but good and true ; and know- 
ing his habits, it was not* strange that she 
wished him near her. 

‘‘ But he writes you so often,” suggested 
NeHie. 

“ And such nice, long letters,” added Mary. 
‘‘ Then John always speaks of him, in his 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


161 


letters to Paul. You know he can make 
money so much faster there, than he can 
here. Why, auntie, I think it is almost the 
best thing in the world to have just as much 
money as you want to do good with. Cousin 
Warren can help ajl the poor people, when 
he gets rich.” 

‘‘ Yes, child,” answered Mrs. Lewis, cheer- 
fully. “ But rich men are not always gen- 
erous.” 

‘‘ I know it, auntie ; but we expect cousin 
Warren will be generous. John says he is 
just as kind as he can be.” 

“And John knows of course. You don’t 
suppose that boy could be mistaken, do you? ” 

“Not in this case,” replied Mary with a 
blush. “ I should trust his judgment.” 

“ Yes, dear, and I hope it will never fail 
himself, or you.” 

John Carr had a strong incentive to make 
the most of his opportunities. There was 


162 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


no engagement of marriage between Maiy 
Manson and himself ; but each had looked 
into the other’s heart, and seen the idol, 
there enshrined. The doctor, too, had a 
shrewd suspicion of there mutual love; and 
smiled approval, although he had not been 
consulted. 

The fact that John’s mother had been a 
poor woman, and himself, at one time, the 
recipient of charity, was counted no disgrace 
by those who knew his true nobility of 
character. In his present position, he might 
have ignored the past; but whenever a 
poor child needed encouragement, he was 
ready to tell @f his own privations and 
struggles. Albert Jefts heard his story; won- 
dered at his indomitable energy, and ad- 
mired his firm principle. 

‘‘ I have wasted so many years ! ” said this 
young man, with a sigh. ‘'And yet they 
never leave me. I could almost welcome 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


163 


death to rid me of them/’ he added, in a 
lower tone. You have no ghosts to haunt 
you Carr. Thank God for that. I never 
thought to come to this. I remember how my 
father talked to me, before he died ; urging 
me to be a Christian, and do my whole duty 
in the world. Mother, too, dear mother, — 
how she loved and trusted me. Do you 
know, Carr, I never tried to deceive her but 
once in my life. I am thankful for that. I 
was so wretched, then, I thought I should 
never be happy again.” 

It was in one of the dark hours that these 
thoughts claimed utterance ; but presently, 
light shined through the darkness. Mr. Jefts 
did not need to be reminded of his pledge, 
or urged to its fulfillment. After a few days 
of intimacy, his friend never doubted his in- 
tegrity of purpose or strength of will ; but 
there was often need to rouse him to a more 
cheerful view of life. 


164 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


In the store, his services were invaluable, 
and gradually the look of dissipation faded 
from his face. His old companions,* despair- 
ing of his return to former habits, avoided 
him. Mr. Lewis took occasion to express 
gratification at the change in his appearance, 
and the young man, having at heart the best 
interests of his employer, replied, ‘‘ I have 
gained much, since I abandoned my cups. 
Nothing could induce me to go back to the 
old slavery. I am ready to join Carr, in 
preaching total abstinence.” ^ 

Preach away,” was the laughing response. 
I am not going to discourage you. If there 
is any one to be pitied, it is the slave of 
appetite; and too many of our young men 
are bound, hand and foot. Some who were 
my class-mates in school, might better be 
dead than as they are.” 

Warren Lewis’ first visit home, was made 
sooner than he had anticipated. He could 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


165 


leave his business in good hands, and there 
were many whom he desired to see. Perhaps 
pride had something to do with this ; for he 
had prospered beyond his most sanguine ex- 
pectations, and received the congratulations 
of his friends, with the air of one accustomed 
to success. 

A little slow seemed the familiar city, as 
he contrasted it with the hurry and bustle he 
had left. Come out west and wake up,’’ 
he said to one and another. “ There is room 
enough thfs side the Rocky Mountains, and 
you will breathe freer than you can here.” 

“ But you get your growth here,” remarked 
Mr. Jewett, smiling at the enthusiasm with 
which the west was extolled. “You had your 
training in the east.” 

“Yes, sir; but I’m fast getting western- 
ized,” was the reply. “ Western society is 
the progressive element in our body politic, 
and sure to make its mark.” 


166 


THE HERMIT HOLCOMBE. 


“Perhaps so. I’ve no wish to disparage 
any part of our country; but if moderation 
don’t come -with age, there’ll be shipwreck 
somewhere. Don’t go too fast yourself ; and 
don’t persuade all the young men to leave 
us. I didn’t think it very neighborly when 
you sent for John, though Paul fills his place. 
They are both fine young fellows.” 

“Yes, sir ; and John’s business tact will 
make his fortune.” 

“ Something more than tact, there,” said 
the elder man. “Johnny is as straight-for- 
ward and honest as the sun. Dr. Manson 
has had a good deal to do with the making 
of his character ; and the doctor miderstands 
such business.” 

“ Yes, sir. Hal is a splendid fellow, with 
a wonderful knowledge of human nature ; but 
this would be a queer world, if everybody 
adopted his notions.” 

“ It would be a blessed good world,” re- 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


167 


sponded Mr. Jewett. People could go to 
Heaven on their own merits. I wish all the 
doctors in the country were like him. He 
prescribes for soul and body.” 

Warren had the most profound respect for 
his cousin ; yet it was but natural that he 
should stigmatize as “notions,” principles so 
opposed to his own practice. He knew better 
than any one else, that his habits, so far 
from improving, had deteriorated. There was 
much in his daily life which Hal would 
condemn. 

He expected remonstrance and rebuke, 
when they should meet; but not a word of 
either was spoken. The most cordial greet- 
ing, the most a^ectionate interest, but no 
warning. The cousins met in company, 
where one drank wine without the apparent 
notice of the other ; and at no time during 
this visit did the doctor obtrude his “ peculiar 
notions.” Too wise to do this, when they 


168 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


were sure to be disregarded, he trusted that 
his silence would be rightly interpreted, as 
indeed it was. 

Hal thinks me incorrigible,” said Warren 
Lewis to himself, with some bitterness of 
feeling. “ But I will show him that my 
doctrine is as good as his. I can drink mod- 
erately. I will drink moderately.” Strange 
that he should think it necessary so often to 
repeat his resolution. 

Mr. Lewis, senior, was gratified with the 
attentions and compliments bestowed upon 
his son; assuring his wife that they were 
two of the most fortunate people in the 
world. “Plenty of money, good children, 
and nothing to trouble us. By this time, 
you are ready to give up worrying about 
Warren,” he said, with a smile which be- 
spoke his own confidence. 

“ I must leave him with God,” she an- 
swered, seriously. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


169 


Much the same she had said to her' son, 
as they talked of the future, refraining from 
an expression of her deep solicitude. Was 
he not self-accused, as he stooped to kiss the 
quivering lips of this Christian mother, know- 
ing as he did that his welfare was dearer to 
her than her own life ! 

The short visit was soon ended. The 
young merchant turned his face westward, 
impatient for the excitement of business. 
Eeaching his destination, he found that noth- 
ing had been neglected during his absence. 
There were no mistakes to be rectified, no 
discrepancies to be explained. 

“ I might as well have remained away 
longer,” he said, laughingly. “I don’t see 
that I am needed. Everything in order, and 
none of you looking overworked. Made good 
sales, too. There is nothing like having 
faithful clerks.” 

“Temperate clerks,” suggested John Carr, 
quickly. 


170 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

“ Well, temperate clerks, if you like that 
better,” replied Mr. Lewis, pleasantly, al- 
though manifesting some annoyance. We 
all believe in temperance.” 

“ Yes, sir ; and we must practice it.” John 
Carr was privileged. 

“ You were rather severe, considering that 
Mr. Lewis allows himself to use liquor,” said 
Albert Jefts to his friend, that evening. 

“I only spoke the truth,” answered John. 
“We are temperate, and we ought to be tem- 
perate. I wish he never would taste of liquor 
again; though I don’t suppose there’s any 
danger of his being a drunkard. If I thought 
there was, I’d beg of him to make the same 
promise we have.” 

“ There is no danger of his being a drunk- 
ard, at present,” replied Jefts ; and here the 
conversation was interrupted. 

Soon after his return, there were rumors 
that Warren Lewis devoted himself to a 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 171 

young lady, who was spending a few weeks 
in the city with some friends. Absorbed in 
business as he had been, he now found time 
to pay her the most assiduous attention, and 
there was reason to believe that his bachelor 
days were numbered. Some real or fancied 
resemblance to Sadie Manson, first attracted 
him, and made him desire an acquaintance 
with the lady in question. 

Marion Gregory was a lovely girl, gentle 
and affectionate, yet possessing the elements 
of a strong character, which might, or might 
not be developed according to circumstances. 
Accustomed to defer to her parents on all 
occasions, secure in their love and considera- 
tion, she knew little of the doubts and trials 
which sometimes perplex those who act more 
independently. She had seen little of society, 
in the common acceptation of that term, and 
was, therefore, in danger of accepting as 
genuine whatever might please her fancy. 


172 


THE HEBMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Mr. Lewis was endorsed by her friends. 
He was an enterprising merchant, honorable 
and respected, an eligible match for any 
young lady. 

“ You may think yourself a happy girl, if 
he asks you to be his wife,” said one of 
Marion’s cousins, when Warren Lewis was 
under consideration. “ He is a general favor- 
ite, and besides, he comes of a good family ; 
so there’s no danger of being mortified by out- 
landish relatives. His father is a fine man, 
as I know, and he says himself, that his 
mother is the flower of the family.” 

Marion made no reply to this ; yet one who 
saw her blushing face would not have at- 
tributed her silence to indifference. ‘‘I de- 
clare, I believe he has offered himself, already. 
Has he, Marion ? ” 

“ No.” 

“ Then he ought to,” was the mental re- 
joinder. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMB^. 173 

The gentleman had no reason to fear a 
rejection of his suit ; yet whenever he thought 
of asking Marion Gregory to be his wife, he 
felt a distrust of himself, which was entirely 
new. She was pure and unsuspecting. Was 
he worthy to take her life into his keeping ? 

She, at least, believed him worthy; and 
without fear or misgiving, accepted him as the 
arbiter of her destiny. Her parents must be 
consulted ; but this was a mere form, as they 
could not fail to be pleased with their daugh- 
ter’s choice. The course of true love flowed 
smoothly. No one objected to the match, 
unless it might be some who envied the 
parties. 

Mr. and Mi’s. Lewis were delighted at the 
prospect of their son’s marriage, the latter 
considering this nothing less than a positive 
assurance of ultimate success. He reasoned 
that Warren’s wife would be so wise as to 
know the right, and so judicious as to influ- 


174 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


ence her husband. Warren will hear to his 
wife,” he said, cheerfully. 

‘‘ I hope so,” was the reply of Mrs. Lewis, 
who understood the disposition of her son far 
better than did his father. 

‘‘ I know he will, wife. Haven’t I always 
heard to you ? Generally, I mean,” he has- 
tened to add. “ Don’t I know that I am in- • 
debted to you for being what I am, and 
haven’t I told our boy so a hundred times ? ” 
Mr. Lewis said this looking lovingly into the 
brown eyes, which were growing misty with 
tears, at length exclaiming, “ There, now, 
what have I said wrong ? ” 

‘‘Nothing wrong, John. I only hope our 
boy will be as kind a husband as you have 
been.” 

Mrs. Lewis seldom addressed her husband 
as John, and when she did so address him, it 
was the signal for what he termed “ a general 
break-down ” on his part. It made him 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


175 


young again, and he must needs caress and 
pet her, as he had done in the days of their 
courtship. Perhaps it was this which kept the 
love ever warm in his heart, and made him so 
kind and tender a husband. 

Warren’s letters home were more frequent 
than ever, despite the care of a rapidly in- 
• creasing business, and the new interests which 
engrossed his attention. He had so much to 
say to his mother. He wished he could see 
her, and talk over his plans. He was going 
to have a home, keep house, and so start fair 
in married life. Marion preferred it, as well 
as himself. 

When the wedding day was appointed, in- 
vitations were forwarded to many friends ; but 
as the happy pair would go east, directly after 
their marriage, it was thought best to await 
their arrival. John Carr had written to Paul 
Manson that they would all love Miss Gregory, 
so they were prepared to welcome Mrs. Lewis 
most cordially. 


176 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Warren Lewis was very proud of his bride, 
as he presented her to his relatives, and saw 
the admiration they did not care to conceal. 
His father adopted her at once with such 
hearty kisses as made her look shyly at her 
husband, who said, laughing, All right, my 
dear. You will get used to father’s kisses. 
He has been in practice a good many years.”* 

“ Yes, sir, I have,” replied father, rubbing 
his hands. “ I intend to keep in practice, too, 
as long as I live. Thank God, I’ve a wife of 
my own to kiss;” which fervent ejaculation 
put everybody in the best possible humor. 
Uncle Manson’s family were next in consider- 
ation to the immediate home circle, and with 
them the new cousin was affectionately re- 
ceived, and Warren warmly congratulated. 
Others beside himself saw the resemblance be- 
tween Sadie and Marion, and which the ladies 
pronounced mutually flattering. 

The visit was necessarily short ; but Mrs. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


177 


Warren Lewis observed some things which 
she afterwards recalled as worthy of consid- 
eration. She knew that her husband drank 
wine; indeed she had sipped a little herself, 
to keep him company ; but neither at his 
father’s or uncle’s, was there wine upon the 
table. In other places, where wine was fur- 
• nished, she noticed, also, that no member 
of either family tasted it. 

In her innocence and ignorance, she had 
never given a thought to the habit of using 
intoxicating liquors, except when, moved by 
some exhibition of drunkenness. Mrs. Lewis, 
senior, wished to speak of it, but fearing the 
effect, decided to keep silence. One of the 
sisters, however, did say, in a tone of affected 
carelessness, ‘‘ Allow no rival in the wine 
cup. Lay your commands upon Warren, if 
need be.” 

The young wife asked no explanation, quite 
unable to comprehend the strange words. 


178 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


“I only mean that you must warn him 
against too free indulgence in wine,” was the 
reply. “ We believe in total abstinence.” 

“ I to warn my husband,” thought Marion 
Lewis. “ Was he not stronger, wiser, and 
more experienced than she. In short, was 
he not her superior? Was she not to trust 
him in all things, finding her whole happiness 
in loving and being loved ? No question of 
rights or responsibilities had ever disturbed 
the even tenor of her life. She had promised 
to obey, without one consideration of the 
promise ; knowing only that her whole life 
was gladly merged in that of another. Lay 
her commands upon her husband! Never! 
Presume upon lier own judgment, in opposi- 
tion to his! This was simply preposterous. 
He was to be the guide of her life, and the 
rule of lier obedience. The strongest anti* 
reformer could have taken no exceptions to 
her ideas of wifely duty : — or, rather, to the 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


179 


vague sentiment wliicli is so often mistaken 
for an intelligent and positive idea. 

Only a moment did she think of the re- 
marks which had been made. Her husband 
claimed attention, and she forgot all else in 
her admiration of him. 

Dr. Manson was studying her character 
closely ; not because he believed the respon- 
sibility of his cousin’s life to be in her 
hands, but because he wished to know how 
far she could be made to depend upon her- 
self. Warren Lewis had committed himself 
to a definite course of action, long before 
Marion Gregory had crossed his path. A 
bad woman might precipitate his career ; yet 
a good woman would find it difficult to effect 
any material change. Fortunately, for her 
present peace, his wife did not dream that 
any change was desirable. 

‘‘You are -going to see your Aunt Ellen,” 
said Mr. Lewis, to his son, when the latter 


180 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


had been speaking of an immediate return 
to the west. 

I believe I must,’’ was the reply. “ I. 
should like to have Marion see Holcombe, 
and I wish to go there too, myself. Uncle 
Paul and Aunt Ellen were very kind to me, 
when I was there. I feel under great obli- 
gations to them, whenever I think of them. 
And Ellis, — how good and patient he was. 
He is going to be somebody, after all.” 

‘‘ Yes, indeed,” answered Mr. Lewis. ‘‘ He 
will be one of the first in his line. So the 
doctor says, and he is a good judge. Ellis 
has been here part of two winters, and every- 
body liked him. Why, he has lectured al- 
ready ; and only twenty years old. That is 
doing pretty well. You wouldn’t mind his 
lameness now, when he walks slowly. The 
doctor says he will grow stronger, too.” 

“And the doctor is good authority,” was 
the laughing response. “I hear him quoted 
wherever I go.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


181 


“And you’ll continue to hear him quoted. 
That’s my mind. I am proud every time 
he calls me uncle. I guess I think enough 
of my own boy, too.” 

“ I reckon you do, father. I never was. 
jealous of Hal ; and it would be foolish 
to commence now, when I am having every- 
thing my own way. There is room enough 
for us both in the world.” 

“ And would be if you had both settled at 
home. Your mother aint quite suited to have 
you so far off; but she’ll feel better about 
it, now you’ve got a good wife. Nothing to 
fear for him,” thought the father, as his son 
went out of the room. 

Not long after this, Dr. Manson met him, 
and stopping to speak, was made aware that 
he had been drinking wine. Some expression 
betrayed this knowledge, and Warren Lewis 
hastened to explain. “The fact is, Hal, I 
called on a friend, and we had a pleasant 


182 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


chat over a glass of wine ; or rather, over 
two glasses. I should know that look on 
your face, if I should see it in Batavia. I ’ve 
seen it too often in the days of auld lang 
syne.” 

“ So often, that you never wish to see it 
again.” 

“ Well, to tell the truth, I don’t. But I 
hope to see you a thousand times. Give 
yourself a little rest and take a look at our 
great country. Here you have plodded away 
until you are growing old before your time.” 

‘‘Am I?” was the smiling reply. “Then 
I trust I am growing old in a good cause. 
How soon do you leave us ? ” 

“To-morrow, I think. I have decided to 
go to Holcombe, and my business needs at- 
tention j although J efts and Carr are very 
efficient.” 

The doctor knew of Jefts ; of the straits 
in which he had been placed, and of his re- 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


183 


form. John Carr had written a long letter, 
giving account of this friend and asking some 
advice. Indeed, Albert Jefts was indebted 
to Dr. Manson for counsel, which had proved 
of great value. 

“ How soon will John come this way ? ” 
was asked, in response to the merchant’s last 
remark. 

“I have no means of judging. He often 
speaks of his friends here; but he seems 
well contented, and anxious to learn all he 
can of business. He is genuine. No sham 
about him. A little too serious, perhaps ; but 
he enjoys being serious.” 

‘‘ He has had a serious life for one so 
young.” 

‘‘ Yes, and it’s not strange that he remem- 
bers it. My sympathies were never so moved 
for any one, as they were for him the first 
time I saw him. It seemed almost wicked 
that a child should suffer so.” 


184 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

“ It wm wicked,” said the doctor, decidedly. 

Tliere was a cause for John’s suffering. 
His father was a drunkard ; and the sins of 
fathers are visited upon the children. No 
man sinneth to himself alone.” 

‘‘Hal managed to preach a sermon after 
all,” mentally ejaculated Warren Lewis, as he 
walked on. ‘‘ I knew he would, though I 
couldn’t tell how. Pity he couldn’t be a little 
more liberal.” 

Holcombe came next ; and there stood Aunt 
Ellen on the piazza, looking much as she had 
years before, when she waited for two school 
boys, who were sure to receive from her a 
smiling welcome. “My wife. Aunt Ellen,” 
said a familiar voice ; and Marion Lewis was 
welcomed with the cordiality to which she 
was accustomed. 

A rare specimen of moss Was brought to 
Ellis, yesterday, and he persuaded his father 
to go with him in search'of more this after- 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


185 


noon,’’ said Mrs. Farley, when her guests were 
seated in the parlor. “ They expected to 
return before you would arrive.” 

‘‘We shall excuse them,” answered Mr. 
Lewis. “Is Ellis as enthusiastic as ever?” 

“ I believe he grows more enthusiastic 
every day,” was the reply. “We were afraid 
his enthusiasm would overtax his strength ; 
but there seems little danger, now.” 

“ 1 hear a good report of Ellis. I can 
hardly realize that the helpless boy I used 
to see here, has grown to be so fine a 
scholar. He must be careful not to overtax 
his strength, and so miss the goal of his 
ambition. Our country can boast of but few 
who have distinguished themselves in the 
path he has chosen. Why, my dear, this 
cousin of ours counts every stone a gem,” 
added the speaker, turning to his wife, who 
had taken no part in the conversation. 
“ Aunt Ellen, do you think that an exaggera- 
tion ? ” 


186 


THE HERMIT OF H OLCOMBE. 


Before a reply could be made, Professor 
Farley and his son were seen coming up the 
walk. I am sorry not to have been at 
home to receive you,” said the former, after 
the first greetings were exchanged. “ Ellis 
would follow the boy who undertook to find 
some curious mosses ; and the way was longer 
than we expected. I hope we shall be 
excused for our seeming want of courtesy.” 

Of course, the apology was accepted ; 
Warren Lewis asking in what direction they 
had been. 

“ Out by the old hermit’s house ; and from 
there across the fields to that strip of wood- 
land which runs north and south. We rode 
to the house, and made the rest of the dis- 
tance on foot.” 

“ And quite a tramp you have had. Is 
that old house standing now ? The first time 
I saw it, it looked ready to fall.” 

“ Yet it stands, though time and weather 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


187 


have done their work upon it. It will last 
many years longer if left to the natural course 
of decay.” 

“ Does any one live in it ? ” 

“No; Mr. Wolcott was its last occupant. 
The present owner gives no attention to it.” 

“ Some people say the house is haunted,” 
added Ellis. “ The children of the neighbor- 
hood are afraid to go past it after dark. 
They think the old man stands by one of the 
windows.” 

“ Do you remember him, cousin Ellis ? 

“Perfectly,” was the reply. ‘‘I used to 
think it a rare treat to have Mr. Wolcott come 
here. To my childish eyes, he was quite a 
wonder. He ought to be immortalized either 
with brush or pen.” 

“ And his fate should serve as a warning 
to all young men;” remarked Professor 
Farley. “ I believe he was the most entire 
wreck of manhood I have ever seen. 


188 THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 

‘‘ And what of liis relatives ? ” asked 
Warren Lewis, anxious to avoid a discussion 
of the causes of this wreck. 

His sister’s death occurred soon after his 
own, and it was more than two years before 
there was any settlement of his affairs. Then 
a nephew came, sold the house, and whatever 
furniture there was worth removing, was given 
to the woman who had done Mr. Wolcott’s 
cooking. His books are in my library, and 
Ellis appropriated some mineral specimens. 
But I forgot that you were, here when he died. 
You must have known this before.” 

I was here when he died,” was the reply. 

“ But there was no disposition made of his 
effects, at that time, and I have never thought 
to ask about them since. My interest in him 
was not so great as the doctor’s. Hal was 
perfectly wild over him, about the time of his 
death.” 

I shall be curious to hear the story of this 
hermit,” said Mrs. Lewis. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


189 


It is too sad for you to hear/’ responded 
her husband, kindly. But for all that, she 
heard the story from Ellis Farley, and pon- 
dered much upon it. 

Upon their return from this trip, Mr. and 
Mrs. Lewis found that her father had pur- 
chased a desirable house, which he presented 
to his daughter as a wedding gift. He also 
provided the means for furnishing it, and 
arranged for the yearly payment of taxes. 

This last, which seemed entirely unneces- 
sary, provoked some discussion between Mr. 
Gregory and his son-in-law ; but the father in- 
sisted upon carrying out his original plan. 
‘‘ It is what I always intended to do,” he said. 
“ It is part of Marion’s portion of my prop- 
erty ; and she may as well have it now as any 
time. If you should be unfortunate in busi- 
ness, you would still have a home.” 

‘‘But I hope not to be unfortunate,” was 
the reply. 


190 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


‘‘ We all hope so ; but the chances of trade 
may make a man poor, when he least expects 
it ; and it is always pleasant to live in a 
house of your own,’’ 

This could not be denied; and yet if his 
father-in-law had wished to assist them, the 
gift of a few thousand dollars to himself would 
have been more acceptable. Warren Lewis 
did not say this. He probably would have 
denied that such was the fact ; but that, in 
some way, he felt injured was very apparent. 

Married and established in a home which 
should be to them the dearest spot on earth, 
these two commenced a new life. What 
should this life be ? What record would be 
made by the coming years ? 

Husband and wife would have answered 
these questions, confidently ; one secure in 
his own strength, the other trusting a love it 
would have been impossible for lier to doubt. 
Friends, too, would have answered, confi- 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


191 


dently. Was lie not honorable and up- 
right ? Was she not affectionate and true ? 


CHAPTER V. 


Bays fly apace. Years come and go, 

Each laden with its joy and woe; 

Each bearing some new gift of grace, 

Or bringing back some pale, dead face. 

To haunt the feasts, which love may spread, 
And fill the heart with fear and dread. 


DECADE of years. Thousands of 
days, each one numbering its full 
measure of hours. How long seems 
the time, in anticipation ! How far 
off seems the tenth anniversary of a marriage, 
a death, or a victory ! 

It is well we cannot see the end from the 
beginning, else should we faint and falter, ere 
half the race was accomplished. But if, while 

choice remains to us, some magic hand could, 

192 



THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 193 

for a moment, lift the veil which now conceals 
the luture, should we not hasten to retrieve 
mistakes already made ? If we could see the 
disastrous results of a chosen course of con- 
duct, should we not at once abandon it ? 

So we think ; but certain causes will pro- 
duce certain effects. Jlen do not gather 
grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles. Yet some, 
who, in business transactions, are shrewd, 
far-seeing, and consistent, are strangely at 
fault in regard to their moral well-being. 
The weak and ignorant do well to be guarded ;• 
but they are above such need. Restrictions 
and pledges may be necessary for some ; but 
not for them. 

Warren Lewis was one who considered 
himself entitled to freedom, in all things ; and 
certainly, if pecuniary success could give 
warrant for this, he had some right to claim 
it. The first year of his marriage was un- 
usually favorable for business. He was pros- 
perous, and his home pleasant. 


/ 


194 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOftlBE. 

But in that home was, even now, a cause of 
difference between husband and wife. Mrs. 
Lewis was, by no means, what would be con- 
.sidered an advocate of temperance. In her 
father’s house, wine and other liquors were 
occasionally placed upon the table, and she 
would not have objected to this, at her own 
table. She did, however, object to the con- 
stant appearance of wine, and at length made 
some remonstrance. 

“And you really care about it,” said her 
husband, smiling, surprised though he was. 

“Yes, I do,” she replied, earnestly. 

“ I am sorry if you do,” he answered. “ I 
must have a glass of wine, with my dinner. 
Don’t trouble yourself about it, Marion.” 

This was all. Her first attempt to influ- 
ence her husband had not been so successful 
that she would wish to repeat the experiment. 
She hastened to make amends, as best she 
might, for having annoyed him ever so 
slightly. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 195 

John Carr and Albert Jefts, with another 
young man in his employ, were invited to 
dine with him. Knowing well that wine 
would be refused by, at least, two of his 
guests, he offered it as he would have done 
without this knowledge. One accepted; but 
in speaking of it afterwards, this young man 
said the acceptance was a mere act of courte- 
sy, on his part. “ I don’t care for liquor,” 
he added. “ I can drink, or let it alone. 
I thought Mr. Lewis would be better pleased, 
if I drank with him.” 

“ I don’t really think he was,” answered 
John Carr, frankly. ‘‘ I advise you, as a 
friend, not to drink again with him. Jefts 
and I never drink, under any circumstances. 
It is against our principles and our pledge ; 
and I am sure Mr. Lewis has more confidence 
in us, than he would have if he didn’t know 
this.” 

“ But he drinks himself. It is no worse 


for others than for him.” 


196 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ I know it. But because he does wrong, 
there is no^reason why we should.” 

Two years passed, and after repeated invi- 
tations, the mother of W arren Lewis decided 
to visit him. There was a grandchild, a 
handsome boy, anxious to make her ac- 
quaintance,' the happy father wrote. 

“We must go now, wife,” said Mr. John 
Lewis, when this news was received. “I 
can leave the store as well as not, and Mary 
Manson can help you get ready. I shouldn’t 
wonder if she would like to go with us ; and 
I mean to ask John when he calculates to 
come after her. Everything will go right 
there.” 

Mrs. Lewis found the journey very fa- 
tiguing; but the welcome she received, com- 
pensated for all previous discomfort. If the 
baby was not anxious to make her acquain- 
tance, he was quite willing to do so'; and 
nothing could have been more pleasant than 
her first entrance into her son’s house. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 197 

He was stronger than when she last saw 
him. Getting to be solid and substantial,’’ 
he said, with a laugh. “ I am following in 
father’s footsteps, and fancy I look quite 
fatherly myself.” 

“I think you do,” replied Mr. Lewis, 
senior. That boy of yours looks to me 
worth raising ; and I hope he’ll live to be as 
much of a comfort to you, as you are to me. 
I believe it would have killed me, if you had 
gone wrong. When I sent you to Holcombe 
with Harry, I was so anxious about you, I 
could hardly attend to my business. Now, 
thank God, I have nothing to trouble me.” 

At dinner, ‘‘grandfather” drank to the 
health of the child who was to bear his name. 
“ Will you join us, mother ? ” asked Warren 
Lewis. 

“ No, >my son,” she replied. “ You know 
that 1 never drink wine, and I am sorry that 
you do.” 


198 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ But you see father sets the example,” 
said her son, resolved not to take the matter 
seriously. 

‘‘ It looks to me like his yielding to a 
temptation which you have prepared for him,” 
replied the mother. “We must discounte- 
nance this,” she added, turning to her daugh- 
ter-in-law ; and then to avoid further discus- 
sion, began to speak upon another subject. 

She did not, however, thus dismiss a matter 
which seemed to her of great importance. 
Alone with her husband, she again brought 
forward the arguments he had so often heard ; 
with the additional one, drawn from the force 
of example. 

The following day, the elder Mr. Lewis took 
occasion to repeat this conversation to his 
son, adding, “ I told your mother I wouldn’t 
drink wine again while we are here, and you 
better not have it on the table.” 

“ But I always have it on the table,” was 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 199 

the reply. “ Mother is foolish about this, and 
I wonder that you allow her prejudices to 
influence you.’’ 

‘‘ Warren, do you know that you are talking 
about your mother ; for me, the best woman 
in the world ? Don’t ever speak of her again 
in that way. I don’t doubt but she is right 
about tills, though I don’t see it in the same 
light she does. She always has influenced 
me and she always will.” 

Seldom did he speak so seriously. The 
tone of voice in which his son’s remarks were 
made troubled him quite as much as the re- 
marks themselves. It was cold and careless. 
Warren, seeing that he had offended, made 
haste to apologize, paying such tribute to his 
mother’s worth, as quite appeased his father.- 
He yielded, also, the contested point, solacing 
himself with the thought that abstinence at 
the table did not impose abstinence elsewhere. 
Having yielded, be was too thoroughly a 


200 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


gentleman and too dutiful a son to manifest 
any annoyance at the change. 

Mrs. Lewis, or grandmother,” as her hus- 
band called her, teazingly, spent most of the 
time with her daughter-in-law and the baby, 
assisting in the care of the latter, while giving 
to the former much advice and instruction, in 
regard to her new duties. 

“ It is so pleasant to have you here,” said 
Marion, after one of the long talks, in which 
each had expressed her thoughts and feelings 
frankly. “ My own mother has not been able 
to come since baby was born, and I needed 
some one to advise me. Warren is always 
kind and good ; but sometimes mother seems 
to me. the best friend, after all.” 

“ Yes, my dear, I have thought that, many 
times. My mother died when I was very 
young, and I have always missed her. I am 
glad if I* seem to you like a mother. War- 
ren’s wife would be sure to find a warm place 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


201 


in my heart ; yet I should be sure to love you, 
if you were not his wife. I wish you to be 
happy and satisfied in your life. So many 
people are unhappy and complaining, wretched 
themselves, and making others wretched. I 
wish I could help them all to do better.” 

“ I hope you don’t think I am complaining,” 
said Marion, as she drew her chair nearer to 
the kind woman. 

“No, my dear ; that description does not 
suit you. I was thinking of others whom I 
have known. You seem satisfied with your 
life.” 

“ Indeed I am,” was the reply. “ How 
could I help it ? Haven’t I the best husband, 
the dearest baby, and the pleasantest home in 
the world ? ” 

“ I hope you think so,” answered the 
mother. “ It is a sad day for any wife, when 
she thinks otherwise. Her husband may not 
be best to any one else ; but he should be to 


202 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

her, even though she knows he is far from 
perfect.” 

“ I thought my husband perfect,” said 
Marion Lewis, smiling and blushing, yet with 
an undertone of sadness. 

And I know you have learned your mis- 
take, long before this, my dear child. I could 
have told you that. My love for him never 
made me blind to his faults.” 

“ I was glad to have you say what you 
did about wine, the first day you were here,” 
remarked the younger lady after a short 
silence. “ I prefer not to have it upon the 
table, constantly.” 

“ I prefer not to have it at all. I believe in 
entire abstinence from everything which can 
intoxicate, and never allow any kind of liquor 
upon my table. I know how Warren feels 
about this, and don’t blame you for anything 
he does,” the mother hastened to add. “ He 
is not alone in his opinion ; but I know tlrat 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 203 

I am right. Many young mothers think they 
need stimulants to keep up their strength, 
but it is a great mistake : sometimes, a fatal 
mistake for both mother and child.” 

“ Please tell me all about it,” said Marion, 
looking earnestly into the face of her com- 
panion ; and Mrs. Lewis being glad to comply 
with this request, the subject was plainly and 
intelligently discussed. 

Once, during this visit, the mother at- 
tempted to remonstrate with her son , remind- 
ing him that the new relations he had 
assumed involved him in new responsibilities. 
Tlie fact that he lived for others as well as 
himself, made it obligatory upon him to 
live at his best. 

He listened respectfully, answered kindly, 
and yet was wholly unmoved. He was sure 
that he was the best judge of what was right 
for himself. “ If I ever see the necessity of 
changing my habits, I shall do so,” he said. 


204 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


^ “ I hope you will learn to trust me some day, 
mother;’’ and she could only hope that her 
fears for him were groundless. In his inter- 
course with business men, Mr. Lewis was 
more than once tempted to regret the promise 
of abstinence, which he held himself in 
sacred honor bound to respect. Yet, when 
the visit was at an end, he looked back with 
far more of satisfaction than he could other- 
wise have done. 

John Carr was a frequent guest at the house 
of his employer, while these dear old friends 
were there. Welcomed as one of the family, 
he talked freely of his prospects and plans. 
His love for Mary Manson was no longer a 
secret ; neither was it a secret that they would 
be married, whenever he could provide for 
her a suitable home. To Mrs. Lewis, he con- 
fided his doubts and misgivings. He wished 
to give Mary as good a home as she would 
leave. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


205 


“ What do you mean by as good a home ? ” 
was asked with a smile. “ Do you mean as 
large a house and as much furniture, or a 
place where she can be as happy and as 
tenderly loved as she is now ? ’’ 

“ 0 Mrs. Lewis, we shouldn’t need as large 
a house as Mr. Manson’s.” 

‘‘ I don’t think you would,” was the reply. 
“ An d I advise you as a friend, to come on 
and talk with Mary about it. Come to our 
house and consider yourself one of the fam- 
ily. You have worked too long, and need 
rest. Warren must spare you a few weeks.” 

About two months after this, John Can 
astonished his eastern friends by appearing 
among them, when they supposed him far 
away. Some thought he was so much 
changed as to need an introduction; but all 
welcomed him with flattering cordiality. In 
the store, Mr. Jewett fairly monopolized him ; 
anxious to hear of the west, in general, and 
his own fortunes, in particular. 


206 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ Going to settle out there, sometime, I 
suppose,” said the old merchant. 

“Yes, sir, I hope to.” 

“ Well, success to you there, though I 
think we could have done well enough by 
you, if you had stayed with us. Don’t try 
to lead away Paul. He is the main-stay of 
our establishment. Suppose young Lewis is 
doing a good ‘business.” 

“Yes, sir. He has a large trade, and a 
profitable one. There is every prospect of 
his being a wealthy man.” 

“That’s what Pve heard, and I don’t see 
any reason why the prospect shouldn’t be 
realized. He has good habits, and is a 
shrewd manager. Honest, too, if lie is what 
he used to be.” 

“ No one doubts his honesty,” replied John 
Carr. His word is as good as his bond, 
and his clerks are required to follow his ex- 
ample.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


207 


Mrs. John Lewis could not speak of her 
anxiety in regard to her son; but Dr. Man- 
son had no scruples against enquiring of his 
habits. 

“ He is not a total abstinence man,’’ was 
the answer given. “ I wish he^^^w; although 
he may never be really the worse for drink- 
ing. I mean he may never be a drunkard. 
It don’t seem possible that he can be ; but 
I have heard you say that every moderate 
drinker is in danger.” 

“ That is true. Every year’s observation 
confirms me in the belief. I should consider 
any member of our family on the sure road 
to ruin, if indulging in the use of wine. I 
never would give Mary to you, if I did not 
know you. to be a teetotaler. My sisters shall 
not be cursed with drunken husbands, if any 
foresight of mine can prevent it. I tremble 
for Warren Lewis and his wife, whenever I 
think of them.” 


208 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


‘‘ They seem very happy,” said the doctor’s 
companion. “ Mrs. Lewis is a lovely woman, 
and Mr. Lewis is very much respected. As 
for his drinking, he only follovrs the almost 
universal fashion in our city. Jefts and my- 
self are wonders of temperance, and should 
be greatly ridiculed, if we were not so in- 
dependent.” 

‘‘ I believe you were never afraid of ridi- 
cule, John.” 

‘‘ No, sir. When I hopped about on 
crutches, it didn’t trouble me to be laughed 
at. I knew I was doing my best ; and so I 
try to do my best now, let people say what 
they will. How strange it seems that I 
should be able to walk and work as I do ! 
But for you, I should have been a miserable 
cripple all the days of my life. I realize my 
obligations to you, more and more. Yester- 
day I went past the old house m which we 
used- to live, and looked up to the window 


THE HER3IIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


209 


through which I got my only glimpse of the 
world ; and then all your kindness came back 
to me. I remember the first time I saw you, 
and some of the things you said. My gentle- 
man, as I used to call you, seemed to me like 
an angel.” 

‘‘ I am very far from that,” was the reply. 
‘‘'I am only a weak, erring man ; yet God 
knows • I wish to do my work in the world, 
faithfully. It is strange to me that so many 
forget they are living for eternity. This 
life is so short and eternity so long, common 
prudence would dictate a regard for our 
eternal interests. I have just come from the 
dying bed of a young man, who has literally 
killed himself. He is no older than you, and 
he ought to have lived to a good old age ; 
but his habits have ruined him soul and body. 
He was beyond the reach of human skill 
when he sent for me. I have many such 
cases ; but you don’t need to hear of them.” 


210 


TPIE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


With the full approval of her parents and 
brother, Mary Manson had pledged herself to 
share the fortunes of John Carr, quite ready 
to accept an unpretentious home, which 
should be guarded by love and tenderness. 
After the above conversation, this home 
formed the subject of discussion. 

‘‘ I am sure no one could love Mary more 
truly than I do,” remarked John Carr, with 
much emotion. “ But I often think I am 
unworthy of her, and wish I had millions 
of money to lavish upon her, as an expression 
of my love.” 

“ I don’t think she would be any happier 
for that,” replied her brother. ‘‘ Money is 
of little value compared with unvarying affec- 
tion and unswerving integrity. Mary is a 
true woman, and neither of you will be hap- 
pier for postponing your marriage until you 
have acquired a fortune. Not that we are 
anxious to be rid of Mary,” added the doctor 
after a pause. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


211 


‘‘I know you can’t be,” was the quick 
response, made with such earnestness as to 
provoke a smile. “ It makes me very humble 
before God to think he has granted me so 
happy a life; and I will make Mary happy 
with me, if my love can accomplish it. You 
will come out, sometime, and see how we 
live.” 

“ Indeed I will, John ; and now I will leave 
you, to visit patients.” 

Everything was settled. Another year, he 
would claim his bride ; and with this hope in 
his heart, the young man returned to business. 
Jefts was still with him, although contemplat- 
ing a change. 

‘‘ Carr, I wish you would go into partner- 
ship with me,” he said, one evening, when 
they were together. “ I have been thinking 
about it while you were gone, and I am sure 
we could do well to set up for ourselves, and 
not interfere with Mr. Lewis, either. We 


212 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

could make a speciality of some kind of goods 
he is anxious to give up, and by perseverance, 
secure a monopoly of the trade. I ought to 
do better for myself than any one can do for 
me ; and there is nothing like striking at the 
right time. What do you say?” 

“ I say I should like it, if I had the neces- 
sary capital,” answered Carr. ‘‘But I have 
only a few hundred dollars.” 

“And a good knowledge of business,” 
added his companion. “That counts for a 
good deal, in a new undertaking. I will , put 
in what I have, and we will divide the profits 
fairly. What say ? ” 

“ I don’t know what to say, Jefts. I am as 
anxious as anybody, to get ahead in the 
world.” 

“ Of course you are, and as deserving. I 
will explain my plan, and then you can tell 
me what you think of it.” The plan was well 
laid, and not difficult of achievement, provided 
the requisite energy was applied. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


213 


‘‘ But Mr. Lewis will hardly be willing to 
spare us both,” said John, after expressing 
his entire approval and confidence. 

“ I think he will make no positive objec- 
tion,” was the reply. “ He is too fair a man 
for that. He knows, too, that I have intended 
setting up for myself, whenever there should 
be a favorable opportunity. Talk with him 
about it.” 

“ What ! My right hand and my left hand 
both!” exclaimed Warren Lewis. “That is 
too much. I knew Jefts would leave me be- 
fore long; but I calculated on you. I don’t 
see how I can get along without you, Johnny.” 
The old name revived old memories, and a 
sense of his indebtedness to this friend, for a 
moment, quite overpowered the young man. 
“ Mind you, I don’t say you can't leave,” 
added the merchant, suspecting how it was 
with John. “ I don’t intend to be selfish in 
this matter. I'll consult your best interests. 


214 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


and some time, before long, I’ll have a talk 
with Jefts.” 

This settled the matter, and Mr-. Lewis, ac- 
knowledging that what was decided should be 
done at once, provided himself with clerks to 
take the place of those who were to leave. To 
them he said, “ Do as well for yourselves as 
you have done for me, and you cannot fail to 
succeed.” 

There was no interference with his business 
on the part of the new firm. He was glad to 
drop some kinds of goods from his list, 
recommending his customers to patronize an 
establishment where they would be sure of 
fair dealing. 

In close quarters, doing their own work, 
and keeping their own accounts, the young 
men tried their abilities, with no expectation 
of becoming suddenly rich. They would work 
their way, steadily and surely ; content with 
small profits, and at first, if need be, with 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 215 

small sales. Didn’t it seem like a fairy tale 
to John Carr, when he reviewed his past life, 
and thought of the fairy princess, waiting to 
share his home ? 

‘‘ Don’t think I shall be unhappy, because I 
cannot live |n a palace,” wrote Mary Manson 
to her lover. “We will not have a poor 
home, even if it is humble. No home can be 
really poor, where there are love and kind- 
ness.” 

Every one who had known John, rejoiced 
in his good fortune. His partner and him- 
self were agreed as to all business matters. 
“ A rare partnership,” said Mr. Lewis, when 
speaking of them. “ I prefer doing business 
alone ; but they seem animated by the same 
spirit. Out of the store, they are inseparable; 
and there is no danger that their friendship 
will ever change. Fine young men,” he 
added. “A little straight-laced, compared 
with most others; but erring on the safe 
sideJ^ 


216 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Perhaps the speaker thought of himself, 
as he said this ; remembering the entreaties 
of his wife that he would indulge less freely 
in the use of wine. Perhaps, too, for a 
moment, he questioned if it might not be 
better to heed her entreaties. But presently 
he banished the thought as unworthy; al- 
though he loved his wife, and prided himself 
upon the fact that she wanted for nothing 
which money could purchase. 

And she ? Sometimes she chided herself 
for the fears which would intrude to mar 
her happiness. Then, she was ready to 
believe her husband’s judgment so superior 
to her own, that she must be wrong. She 
would resolve to be silent upon the disputed 
point ; and so far succeeded that she seemed 
to forget it. 

Not so, however. She observed closely the 
habits of those whom she met in society. 
Moreover she remembered the advice of 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


217 


mother Lewis, and allowed herself no in- 
dulgence which could injure her child. Her 
husband, laughing at her “ squeamishness,” 
was obliged to yield, when his mother was 
quoted as authority. “ Hal has been talking 
to her,” he said. 

“ And the doctor certainly ought to know,” 
was the reply. 

“ I think he does know almost everything 
connected with his profession ; but like many 
other wise people, he rides a hobby.” This 
was the manner in which Warren Lewis 
usually spoke of his cousin, except in the 
presence of John Carr, when he omitted all 
qualifying clauses. 

A year’s experience proved that Albert 
Jefts had not miscalculated ; and having been 
prospered thus far, the young merchants 
ventured to assume new responsibilities. 
They rented a cottage containing two tene- 
ments ; and each brought a bride to preside 


218 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


over the small rooms.' Daisy Jefts, now a 
grown young lady, having been left alone 
by the death of Aunt Desire, came too, and 
was welcomed by all. There was to be a 
servant in each kitchen ; for so had the gen- 
tlemen decided ; but Mary Manson, now Mary 
Carr, insisted upon ruling supreme in her 
“own kingdom;’’ and Mrs. *Jefts soon fol- 
lowed her example. 

Mary’s home was very different from that 
of her cousin Warren, where money was 
spent without stint. Yet she did not envy 
Marion Lewis. She saw the restless anxiety 
which even now began to tell upon the ap- 
pearance of the young mother, 'and readily 
divined the cause. The baby, John Lewis, 
junior, was a treasure in himself; healthy, 
handsome and good-humored ; well managed 
and tenderly loved. 

“You look like a temperance boy,” said 
Mary to him one day, when he was about two 
years old. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


219 


“Temperance boy” be lisped in reply; . 
clapping bis bands and laughing merrily. 

“I hope be will be a temperance wan,” 
said bis mother. “ I never thought much 
about temperance, until since be was born. 
Mother Lewis talked to me when she was 
here, and Fve tried to manage him as she 
told me. I haven’t tasted of wine since she 
was here, though Warren thinks me too 
particular and says I need it sometimes. We 
don’t want it, do we, darling?” she added, 
clasping her child in her arms and covering 
his face with kisses. 

“ Mamma cry,” was the little fellow’s re- 
sponse, wiping away the tears for which she 
apologized, by saying that she was a little 
nervous. 

Often was this excuse made when tears 
could not be repressed ; and as one after 
another was added to the number of her loved 
ones, baby hands still sought to remove the 


220 


THE HBEMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


traces of these tears. At the tenth anniver- 
sary of her marriage, she was the mother of 
four boys. How happy she had been when 
standing at the altar, she had pledged herself 
for life to one whom she thought the embodi- 
ment of manly perfection. “ Poor child ! ’’ as 
mother Lewis said. She had learned her 
mistake. 

Her husband was a wealthy merchant, 
whose business was well managed, and whose 
gains were sure. He was respected, honest, 
and as the world goes, honorable. A genial 
man, too, accomodating himself to circum- 
stances, he’ made a host of friends. Hospita- 
ble and proud of his family, it was his 
pleasure to entertain company, both friends 
and strangers. 

He was not disposed to find fault with his 
wife ; but he did wonder that she should so 
soon have lost the blooming beauty and 
sprightly manners which had fii*st attracted 


THE HER^IIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


221 


him. “ Marion has changed a great deal,” 
ho said to himself, as she passed through 
the room in which he was sitting. “ I 
wonder ” 

But just then he caught a reflection from 
the mirror opposite. He, too, had changed. 
His face was full and flushed, his figure far 
too stout for elegance, and even his hands had 
a gross, puffy look. He went nearer to the 
mirror, and took a deliberate survey of him- 
self. “ Hal told me the truth,” he thought. 
“ I drink too much liquor ; I ought to give it 
up. I made a mistake in the beginning. 
Simpleton ! ” he exclaimed, a moment after. 
“ As though I could expect at forty to look 
like a young man. I have had my day of 
good looks, and must depend upon something 
else, now. Tve money enough, and there’s 
more to be made. I’m well enough. Hal 
don’t know everything, if he is such a famous 
doctor; and that glass magnifies wonder- 
fully.” 


222 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


So he comforted himself in regard to his 
own looks ; but the pale, tired face of his wife 
haunted him. He contrasted it with the 
beaming countenance of his cousin, Mary Carr, 
who was far more beautiful, in her matronly 
grace, than she had been, when she answered 
to the name of Mary Manson. The compari- 
son was not flattering to Marion Lewis, 
although her life had been exempt from toil, 
while Mrs. Carr had done much of house- 
hold labor. 

Mr. Lewis was thinking of this, as his wife 
again passed through the . room in which he 
was sitting ; and he was half inclined to ad- 
dress her upon^the subject. It might have 
been better had she done so ; for she did not 
hesitate now to speak frankly, whenever occa- 
sion seemed fitting. Thus far she had her 
boys under control ; but soon, -r- she dared not 
think how soon, — they would look to their 
father’s example as the rule of their lives. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


223 


They saw the sparkle of the flowing wine, saw 
^ their father as he drank it with such avidity as 
betrayed the cravings of his appetite ; and she 
knew all this could not be without effect. 

Yet she never spoke of this. Neither did 
she complain of the fitful temper of her hus- 
band. He protested that he was not injured 
by the use of alcoholic liquors, because he had 
never been really intoxicated, and was still a 
clear-headed business man. 

But at forty, a man may well look to his 
ways, whether they be good or whether they 
be evil ; for in one form or another, retribu- 
tion is sure, soon, to overtake him. If War- 
ren Lewis was clear-headed, it was only after 
the morning stimulant, which his system de- 
manded to give it tone, for- the business of the 
day. Infirmities crowded fast upon him ; in- 
duced, not by hard work, but hard drinking, 
as Dr. Manson had told him in plain lan- 
guage. 


224 


THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Never intoxicated ! It would have been 
nearer the truth to say that he was never 
thoroughly free from the influence of liquor. 
Late at night, early in the morning, at lunch, 
at dinner, and often with friends, he drained 
the glass of its fiery contents. Was this 
moderation ? So he claimed, when talking 
with his cousin, who, notwithstanding the 
wearing life of a physician, looked quite ten 
years his junior, and gave no sign of physical 
weakness. Nothing annoyed Warren Lewis 
so much as to be reminded of his infirmities, 
either by the sympathy of his wife, the care- 
less remarks of an acquaintance, or his own 
feelings. 

He wished to celebrate the tenth anniver- 
sary of his marriage, and in uncommonly 
gracious mood, allowed his wife to make all 
necessary arrangements, without dictation or 
interference on his part. Left to consult her 
own wishes, she invited only the families of 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


225 


Albert Jefts and John Carr, insisting that 
every member should be present, even the 
babies. She said, laughingly, that the chil- 
dren would form the most important part of 
the company, as they certainly did, so far as 
numbers were considered, counting nine, who 
seemed to wear their best manners, with their 
best frocks. 

The dinner, too, was according to Mrs. 
Lewis’ taste, without wine. Everything 
passed off pleasantly ; the guests wishing 
their host and hostess many returns of the 
happy day. 

“ Times have changed since I first became 
acquainted with you,” said Mr. Lewis to 
John Carr. “ These youngsters remind us 
that we must soon make room for them, on 
the stage of action. I must acknowledge 
that it makes me feel rather old, to think 
that I am the father of four boys, growing 
as fast as mine do.” 


226 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

‘‘I believe I feel younger for being called 
father/’ was the cheerful reply. “ Mary and 
I have no idea of being set aside as old 
people, for a long time to come. We cal- 
culate to celebrate our golden wedding in 
this world if Providence permits. At any 
rate, we intend to live out the full measure 
of our days and make each one of them 
happier than the one preceding. * You see 
we have great expectations.” 

“Yes, I see, Johnny. That name hardly 
suits you now.” 

“I think it does, Mr. Lewis. Mary calls 
me so, sometimes, and the name pleases me 
wonderfully.” 

“ You are having a first rate trade this 
season,” was the next remark of the host, 
addressed to Albert Jefts. 

“ Yes, sir, better than at any time before,” 
was answered. “We are in a fair way, 
now, and but for home influence, should 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


227 


enlarge our housekeeping accommodations, 
to correspond with those of our business. 
Mrs. Carr clings to the cottage ; and my wife 
is pretty sure to think as she does. So 
Carr and I make a virtue of necessity, and 
submit.’^ 

‘‘You needn’t imagine that I shouldn’t 
like a large house with all the modern con- 
veniences,” exclaimed Mary Carr, coming 
to her own defence. “ To be sure I should 
like it, just as well as anybody. But we 
are comfortable where we are ; and there 
is great pleasure in making one’s home rich, 
without being luxurious. Sometime, when 
we can better afford it, I may perhaps be 
the mistress of a larger establishment.” 

“ How bright and cheerful cousin Mary 
is,” said Warren Lewis to his wife after their 
guests had left. “ She would make any home 
rich only with her presence.” 

“ Yes,” replied Marion, wearily. “ I al- 


228 THE HEKMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

most envy her constant flow of spirits. 
She is a very happy woman.’’ 

“ 1 don’t see as she has any more to make 
her happy than thousands of other women, . 
was Mr. Lewis’ response. “ Of course, her 
husband loves her, she is provided with all 
the necessaries of life, and her children are 
bright and healthy ; but you are better off 
than she, Marion.” 

“Am I? I have enough of wealth and 
luxury, and I d/) believe you love me, 
Warren.” 

“ Love you, Marion ! Have you ever 
doubted it? I know I am irritable, some- 
times, and speak as I ought not to ; but it is 
because I have so much business on my mind, 
that little things annoy me. I wish you to 
have everything you can desire, and I shall 
always love you. Of course I shall.” 

As he said this, he imprinted a kiss upon 
her lips ; and, alas 1 revealed the fact that he 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


229 


had indulged in his usual potations, although 
there had been no wine at dinner. Involun- 
tarily his wife shrank from him, and then, 
with a sudden effort, returned the kiss. 

“How strange* you are this evening, 
Marion ! ” he exclaimed. “ You are tired, 
and need rest. I have some papers to look 
over, and you had better retire early.” 

The merchant went to his library, and did, 
indeed, examine some papers, although to 
little purpose. Some influence made him 
think of Sadie Manson ; her beauty, purity, 
and goodness. What would she say, could 
she see him now ? He had not met her since 
soon after her marriage ; but Mary had re- 
ceived a letter that morning, announcing her 
intention to visit her western friends. She 
with her husband were coming in a few 
weeks. 

If he could make an excuse for absenting 
himself from the city during her visit, some 


230 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


awkward explanations might be avoided. She 
would look steadily into his face, catching the 
very light of his eyes, and speaking so earn- 
estly, that he could not but give heed to her 
words. She would observe the change in his 
appearance, and too wise to be deceived, 
would attribute it to the true cause. 

He pushed from him the papers which 
should have received attention, drank a glass 
of brandy, and through this medium, took a 
more cheerful view of his condition. He 
closed his eyes, that he might think more 
freely, when, like a shadowy phantom ap- 
peared the hermit of Holcombe. Not dressed 
in courtly garb; but as Harry Manson had 
seen him, just before his death. His long 
hair seemed swept, ever and anon, by the 
wind, his pallid face grew luminous, and his 
tall figure assumed gigantic proportions. 

Warren Lewis sprang to his feet, trembling 
with excitement. Why did the old man thus 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 231 

confront him ? For more than a score of 
years, Harry Wolcott had rested in a grave 
on the sunny slope of one of New England’s 
hills. What had he, now, to do with the 
prosperous western merchant? 

With an impatient gesture, and an ex- 
pression of contempt, Mr. ' Lewis left the 
library, wishing he had never heard of the 
“old vagabond.” The very effort to forget 
the strange appearance, which he knew was 
but a weird fancy of his own disordered brain, 
fixed it more deeply in his memory. It 
haunted him, after he laid his head upon the 
pillow ; and not until the following day, when 
engrossed in business, was it really forgotten. 
Had he been truly wise, he would have heeded 
the warning thus given ; but blinded to his 
best interests, he went on as before. 

Mr. and Mrs. Yates, the latter known to my 
readers as Sadie Manson, came as was ex- 
pected, and in John Carr’s home there was 


282 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


great rejoicing. The children, charmed with 
the beautiful lady they were taught to call 
auntie, were hardly more demonstrative than 
their father. It was one of the happiest days 
of his life, when he welcomed his friend and 
sister to his home. 

Cousin Warren, too, having come up from 
the valley of humiliation, was quite ready 
to greet the visitors cordially. At his own 
suggestion, wine was banished from the table 
whenever they shared the hospitality of his 
house; although he called himself a coward 
for thus yielding to a silent influence, when 
he refused to listen to his wife. 

Mrs. Yates did not speak to him of his 
habits, which were only too apparent, despite 
the slight eflbrt made at concealment; but 
with her sister she talked frankly. ‘‘ Can 
notliing be done ? ” was the question she 
often asked, only to receive the same dis- 
heartening reply. “John ought to remon- 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


233 


strate with him,” she said, at length. “ He, 
certainly, might do it.” 

“ He has attempted it several times,” an- 
swered Mary. “ But it is useless. Warren 
professes to believe that he is not injured, 
and is impatient of any interference. Harry 
told him he was killing himself; hut that 
did no good. John thinks he drinks more 
wine and brandy now, than he ever did 
before.” 

“And Iris wife must bear it,” was said 
in reply. “ She looks far too old for her 
years. I pity her. She cannot be happy.” 

“ No, she cannot.” I have seen her when 
it was impossible for her to make any pre- 
tensions to cheerfulness. I know she has 
many fears for the future ; and I long 
to comfort her. Warren has accumulated 
property rapidly, and is confident that he 
shall continue to do so. Reverses would 
be very hard for him.” 


234 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


I think of his children,” said Sadie. 
‘‘ Those four boys will soon need a father’s 
training. I must remind him of that before 
I go, if nothing more. It will be a terrible 
thing if cousin Warren should add his name 
to the long list of drunkards. I used to 
think I had some influence over him, and 
I must make one efibrt to save him.” 

The day this decision was expressed, Mrs. 
Yates went to the house of her cousin, and 
meeting him in the hall, averted her face 
to escape his liquor-tainted breath. Embar- 
rassed at the unexpected meeting, in his 
present condition, he saw her expcession 
of disgust, and interpreted its meaning. - 
“ I have not been feeling well to-day, so 
was obliged to have recourse to a stimulant,” 
he said, with some hesitation. “ I believe 
you don’t like stimulants. If I remember 
right, you were fastidious in regard to them.” 
“ And have not changed,” was her frank 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


235 


reply. I enjoy the fragrance of flowers ; 
but the sickening fumes of liquor are unen- 
durable to me. I wish you were as thorough 
going a teetotaler, as I am.” 

‘‘ That is not strange,” he replied. “ We 
all fancy our own way to be best. But come 
into the parlor,” he added, recovering self- 
possession. “ Marion has gone out, but I 
will do my best to be agreeable.” 

“And doubtless you will succeed,” re- 
sponded his cousin, accepting the invitation. 
“I must ask you if you really believe what 
you said a moinent ago. Do we all fancy 
that 0ur way is best ? ” 

“ Of course we do,” was the quick reply. 
“ If not, we should change our course. Self- 
ishness would prompt us to that.” 

“ So it would seem. But do you believe 
that all people do as well for themselves as 
they might, or even as well as they know ? 
The drunkard knows he is ruining himself. 


236 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


yet refuses to give up his cups ; and the mod- 
erate drinker knows that abstinence would 
be better fbr him; yet he resolutely ignores 
it. I think you will need to qualify your 
statement, cousin Warren.”, 

“ As you please,” he answered, with forced 
gayety. “ I was always ready to acknowl- 
edge myself beaten, when we disagreed in 
the old days ; and you have not changed, 
that I can claim superiority.” 

“But I have changed,” said the lady, se- 
riously. “All these years have not passed 
without doing their work upon me, as well 
as you. You and I are not the same as 
when we last parted. We are placed in dif- 
ferent circumstances, with increased responsi- 
bilities.” The street door opened, and there 
remained but a moment when she could 
speak without reserve. Hurriedly she mur- 
mured, “Pardon me, cousin Warren, but I 
must remind you that you are risking the 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


23T 


interests of your own soul, and the happiness 
of your family, by the use of intoxicating 
drink. Do look to God for strength, and 
lead a better life.” ’ 

Marion Lewis, recognizing the voice of the 
speaker, entered and bade her welcome, while 
the host bowed himself from the room, plead- 
ing a business engagement. 

‘‘ Like Sadie,” he thought. ‘‘ Well, I ex- 
pected something of the kind, and am glad 
it is over.” But it was not over. Her words 
sounded in his ears wherever he went; and 
for a \ime he forgot the specious fallacies 
with which he was accustomed to deceive 
himself. Better than any other did he know 
how near he stood to ruin ; yet;^ strange in- 
fatuation! did not amend his ways. 

‘‘You are not angry with me, cousin War- 
ren,” said Mrs. Yates, as he held her hand 
at parting. 

“ No, cousin Sadie,” he answered. ‘‘ I 
could never be angry with you.” 


CHAPTER VI. 


Ah me ! what bitter tears are shed, 
When mourn the living for the dead; 
But tears, more bitter, dim the eyes, 
When gazing with a sad surprise. 

On one, we counted true and just, 
Trailing his manhood in the dust. 


HE firm of Jewett, Lewis & Co., was 
still prosperous. Paul Manson, the 
junior partner, filled the place which 
had been vacated by his cousin ; 
and realized the fondest expectations of his 
friends. Uncle John thought him second 
only to Warren, wdiile others considered him 
superior. 

“ Our boy,” Mr. Lewis called the merchant, 
whose shrewd schemes made him conspicuous, 

even where daring enterprise was the rule. 
238 



THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


239 


Talking with his wife, the father allowed 
himself to dwell, with the greatest compla- 
cency, upon “our hoy’s” success. 

“ Bids fair to be worth millions,” he would 
say, rubbing his hands. 

Mrs. Lewis endeavored to respond heartily 
to such remarks of her husband ; yet he ob- 
served that she always offered some qualifica- 
tion. This, however, he attributed to moth- 
erly anxiety, and gave it no special consider- 
ation. 

Often urged to visit her son, she had done 
so but twice during twelve years of his 
married life. She preferred seeing him, with 
his family, in her own home ; but when five 
children claimed the care of her daughter-in- 
law, she prepared for a third visit. 

Everything was in readiness.; but a slight 
illness prevented their leaving home from one 
day to another. “Nothing serious. We 
shall start in a day or two,” said Mr. Lewis, 


240 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


confidently, when asked in regard to the 
health of his wife. 

But to the surprise of all, except the sick 
woman herself and Dr. Manson, this illness 
terminated fatally ; and instead of welcoming 
his parents, Warren Lewis received a tele- 
gram, announcing his mother’s death, and the 
utter prostration of his father. 

“Expect me at the earliest possible mo- 
ment,” he telegraphed, in reply, and took the 
first train east. No delays occurring, and 
every connection being made, he arrived in his 
native city sooner than he was expected. 

Excitement and grief, with the fatigue con- 
sequent upon such rapid travelling, so elfected 
his nerves, that he found it necessary, as he 
said to himself, by way of apology, to resort 
to stimulants. At first, in consideration of 
circumstances, sparingly ; then more freely, 
until he reached home in a state, which, with 
some, would have been considered intoxica- 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


241 


tion. Yet in the general sorrow and sym- 
pathy, this was not observed. 

His father threw himself into his arms, 
clinging to his neck, and weeping like a child, 
whlie he sobbed out the mother’s name in the 
most endearing terms. ‘ They wept together, 
until, exclaiming, “ This is more than I can 
bear,” he rushed frantically from the room, 
only to be followed by his daughters, who in 
vain prayed him to be calm. The son, unable 
to control himself, continued to weep, until 
Mrs. Manson and Mrs. Farley, who were pres- 
ent, appealed to him, when, with a mighty 
effort, he repressed his tears. 

“ It is not strange that your mother’s sud- 
den death should move you deeply,” con- 
tinued Mrs. Farley. “ It is a severe ailjiction 
to us all ; but your father needs your support. 
Everything has been done, without consulting 
him, and the funeral will take place to-morrow 
morning, if agreeable to you. The doctor 


242 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


thought it ought not to be delayed longer ; 
and we depended upon his judgment.” 

Couldn’t he save mother ? ” was asked, 
quickly. 

“No human power could save her,” was 
the reply. “ I have no doubt that his skill, 
with the blessing of God, has prolonged her 
life several years, but she knew her days 
were numbered.” 

“ Then why did not others know it ? ” 

“ Because she preferred they should not. 
She said it would do no good. Your father 
would have been wretched, and she was satis- 
fied that the doctor understood her case. 
He thought she might recover from this 
attack, until a few hours before her death; 
and then she desired that no despatch be 
sent you, while she lived.” 

By this time, Mr. Lewis returned to his 
son, who endeavored to comfort him. “ You 
are all good and I love you,” said the broken- 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


243 


hearted man. “ But none of you know what 
my Mary was to me. I would have given 
up every dollar of my property, and worked 
like the poorest man to support her, if so I 
^ could have purchased her life. 0 Warren, 
how can I live without her ! ” 

It was terrible to witness his grief. As 
friends came in they expressed their sym- 
pathy as they had done before, only to be 
answered with tears and lamentations. At 
last, came Dr. Manson ; and he seemed to 
have some influence over his uncle. 

The greetings between the cousins were 
short and subdued, yet Warren Lewis shrank 
from the scrutinizing glance he received ; , 
and later when consulted in regard to ar- 
rangements for the funeral, was ill at ease. 

Asking of his mother’s disease, he ex- 
pressed a regret that he had not known of 
it while she was living. 

“It would have made you no happier,” 


244 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

was the reply. “I have made her disease 
an especial study for years, and I honestly 
believe nothing could have prolonged her 
life. We all know we must die ; and if our 
work here is well done, it makes little differ- 
ence what is the cause of our death. Your 
mother had done her work well. She was a 
Christian ; and in her last hours had faith to 
believe she should meet her entire family in 
Heaven.” Thus much said, the listener was 
left to his own reflections. 

No one in the house cared to eat j but the 
doctor insisted that all should take their 
places at the table ; and after, when they left 
the dining-room, he said, “If I may be 
allowed the suggestion, I would propose that 
you retire early. I am sure that cousin 
Warren needs rest ; and uncle must sleep if 
possible. I will spend the night here, and 
render any assistance that may be needed.” 

Gladly would he have prevented a visit to 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


245 


the chamber of death ; but failing in this, 
he could only seek to shorten the painful 
sce.ie and soothe the grief thus renewed. 
With his uncle, this was very difficult; but 
at length, he had the satisfaction of seeing 
him sleep quietly. 

Attention was then given to Warren, who 
seemed every moment to grow more restless. 
“ You must have rest,” said his cousin. 

‘‘ I don’t feel tired,” was the response. ‘‘ I 
have hardly slept, since I heard of mother’s 
death, and my eyes feel staringly open.” 

“ They look so,” answered the doctor. “If 
you will take my advice, you will close them 
as soon as possible.” 

“1 don’t want to close, them. To tell the 
truth, Hal, I’m terribly nervous. Mother’s 
death, and my hurried journey has quite 
upset me, and I don’t feel like myself.” 

Of course these had some effect; but War- 
ren Lewis deceived neither himself nor his 


246 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

cousin, when he said this. The latter was 
a little nervous himself, until he knew that 
the family, generally, had retired, when he 
almost compelled Warren to go to the cham- 
ber allotted him. 

Not a moment too soon was this effected. 
“ Hal, that old hermit haunts me. Look ! 
See his eyes, and his long hair, streaming 
in the w'ind! Take him away! For God’s 
sake, take him away! What has he to do 
with me ? ” 

“ I will take him away. He shan’t trouble 
you,” said Dr. Manson. “Just get ready 
for a night’.s sleep, and I will take care of 
him.” 

“ You’re a good ■ fellow, Hal. You were 
always a good fellow ; and now if you’ll give 
me a glass of brandy, I won’t trouble you 
any more. But see ! There is the old 
man ! ” he added, pointing to a corner of the 
“ Can’t you send him away ? ” 


room. 


1 


t 



“ Hal, that old hermit haunts me/’ Page 246. 















THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


247 


“ Yes, yes,” was answered, soothingly. 
“ Lie down, and he will go.” 

With trembling hands and quivering limbs, 
the wretched man obeyed ; yet still the spectre 
haunted him. The doctor, prepared for this, 
gave him a powerful sedative, and awaited 
the result. 

Here was one who should have been in the 
very vigor of manhood, prostrated, not by 
grief, as was his father, but by a poison 
which, while working slowly, works surely. 
Just across the hall, in a luxuriously fur- 
nished chamber, lay the form of his dead 
mother ; but he did not think of her. Groans, 
tears and shrieks, stifled by the stern com- 
mands of one who understood how to use 
authority, betrayed his suffering. In his mad- 
ness, he would spring to elude the grasp of 
his enemy. As a last resort, another sedative 
was administered, and the spell broken. 

An hour’s careful watching discovered no 


248 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


sign of returning excitement, and Warren 
Lewis was left alone. Thanks to the knowl- 
edge and caution of his cousin, not a sound 
had been heard outside the room, which might 
not be attributed to ordinary conversation. 

A few hours’ sleep prepared the doctor for 
the duties of the morning. As he hoped, his 
uncle slept the entire night, and was quite 
calm, as he came into the parlor, enquiring 
for Warren. 

He is not up yet, I think,” was the reply. 
“ I will go to his room, and see ; ” and glad of 
an excuse for so doing, Dr. Manson sprang up 
the stairs, and called to his cousin. 

“ Come in. I’m glad it’s you, Hal. I 
wanted you.” 

“ How do you find yourself this morning, 
cousin Warren ? ” 

“ In poor condition, Hal. I must have 
some brandy. Is there any in the house?” 

Brandy is not kept in this house,” an- 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 249 

swered the doctor. “ Your mother didn’t be- 
lieve in it.” 

“ I know she didn’t, the dear, good woman ; ” 
and here a burst of tears interrupted the 
speaker. “ But whether I believe in it or not, 
I must have some this morning. Look at me, 
and you will see that I need it. I promise, 
sacredly, to drink only enough to steady my 
nerves. You may give it to me yourself.” 

It was no time for the necessary medical 
treatment to give strength to shattered nerves ; 
and prepared, even for this emergency, the 
doctor soon produced a glass of brandy. 
“ Drink that,” he said ; adding, “ You should 
not receive it from my hands', under any 
other circumstances. But now, there seems to 
be no alternative.” 

The glass was drained eagerly, and with 
tlie exclamation, “Not half enough, Hal,” re- 
turned for more. 


“Wait!” was the reply. “You are far 


250 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


gone, if that is not enough. I must go down 
and report to your father. In five minutes I 
will return.” 

“ Give me more brandy before you go ; ” 
but Dr. Manson did not seem to hear this 
plea, as he left the room. 

‘‘ Is Warren sick this morning ? ” asked 
Mr. Lewis, anxiously. 

He is not feeling very well,” replied the 
doctor. His long, hurried journey would try 
the strength of any one. But he will be down 
soon.” 

‘‘ Poor boy ! I know it must be hard for 
him. I seem to forget everything but my 
own trouble. I have hardly thought of my 
children’s loss. Oh, Mary, come back to us ! ” 
and the bereaved man opened his arms, only 
to fold them again wearily upon his breast. 

“Where’s the brandy, Hal? I looked for 
it every minute you were gone,” was the ex- 
clamation which greeted the doctor, upon re- 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


251 


turning to his cousin's room. “ Give it to me, 
or I shall die I There’s the old man, in the 
corner, pointing his finger at me.” 

“ Stop that folly ! ” was said, sternly. 
“ There is no old man in the corner. How do 
you expect to go through the day, unless you 
can control yourself, here in your room ? I 
shall give you one more glass of brandy, and 
take care to keep the rest out of your way.” 

The door closed upon Warren Lewis, and 
he was left alone for a moment ; while he 
strove, with all the force of will he could 
command, to recover composure. Of humilia- 
tion and shame, he had little sense ; so 
overpowered were these by the maddening 
fancies he could not repress. Another glass 
of brandy, and his hand was firm, his brain 
comparatively clear. 

“ Take this, also,” said the doctor, giving 
him a colorless powder; adding, “You will 
do well enough, now, if you let liquor alone. 


252 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


But if you drink another drop to-day, I’ll 
not be responsible for the consequences.” 

No one of those who greeted this man, 
in the family that morning, suspected what 
he had suffered during the hours since 
they parted. Without embarrassment, he 
replied to enquiries concerning his health; 
acknowledging that he had been very much 
fatigued and his nerves somewhat unstrung. 

“I don’t wonder. It was very hard for 
you,” said his father, pityingly. 

It was a sad day for the relatives and 
friends of her whose death had made them 
mourners; but I will not lingej' over the 
funeral, or the closing of the coffin-lid upon 
the dear face which would be seen no more 
on earth. John Lewis felt that he had 
drained the cup of sorrow to its very dregs. 
Yet the wife of his love had gone where 
there is neither pain nor sickness, sorrow 
nor sighing. Often had she talked of this 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


253 


upper home, while he but half comprehended 
the happiness she expressed. ‘‘ I know you 
will come to me in Heaven ; ’’ she had said, 
as he bent to catch her last words. “And 

Warren. Tell him ” 

“■ What could he tell ? To Harry Manson 
was confided the important message for War- 
ren. Whether she would have repeated it to 
her husband, at last, no one would ever know. 

How desolate seemed the house, when 
night drew its curtains around it ! “I can 
hardly realize that mother is really dead;” 
said the son, after a silence, broken only by 
the ticking of the clock, or a whispered 
remark from one of the grandchildren. 

“ It can’t be ! It can’t be ! ” exclaimed the 
father, springing to his feet and pacing the 
room, hurriedly. “ How am I to live without 
her? What shall I do?” 

Every one was relieved by the appearance 
of Dr. Manson who soothed his uncle, as no 


254 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


other could ; speaking calmly and cheerfully, 
yet with no lack of sympathy. 

I believe 3^ou have great magnetic power,” 
remarked Warren Lewis, when alone with 
his cousin, later in the evening. 

“ I wish I possessed ten times what you 
give me credit for having,” was the reply. 

“ Why ? ” was asked, quickly.. 

‘ So that I might influence you, cousin 
Warren. I am shocked at your condition. 
I have a message from your mother which 
I may as well deliver, now. She never 
spoke of your habits to others ; but with me 
she talked freely. She said, ‘ Tell Warren 
he must give up the use of wines and brandy 
or be ruined body and soul. Tell him he 
must give it up, or ruin the happiness of his 
wife and children. Then urge him by every 
possible motive to heed the warning.’ I have 
delivered your mother’s message. Now, shall 
I appeal to you as she desired?” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


255 


Warren Lewis longed to rush from the 
room and thus avoid further comment. But 
it was his dead mother who spoke to him 
through another’s lips. It was his dead 
mother who had charged another to warn 
him of peril and danger. 

“ It’s of no use, Hal,” he said, at length. 
“ I love my mother and honor her memory ; 
but stimulants are a necessity to me. I could 
never get through my business without 
them.” 

“ And how long do you expect to get 
through with them ? ” 

An impatient gesture was ignored by the 
questioner, as he waited for the reply, “I 
don’t know.” 

“ You might make an estimate sufficiently 
accurate for practical purposes. At least, 
I could do so, with my knowledge of the 
human system.” 

‘‘ I am not a physician, Hal. I can’t be 


256 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


expected to know as much of such things 
as you do.’’ 

“ Of course not, cousin Warren. But you 
must know that your powers of endurance 
are giving way rapidly. You had an attack 
of delirium tremens last night.” 

“ For God’s sake, Hal, don’t use that 
term in connection with me. I know I was 
nervous ; but it couldn’t have been so bad 
as that.” 

“ It was so bad. Have you ever had such 
an attack before ? ” A negative was the 
only reply, and the doctor continued. “ Have 
you 'had any symptoms of such an attack? 
Has the old hermit appeared to you before ? ” 
Once before,” was said, after some hesita- 
tion. “ I don’t think it strange that he has. 
You talked so much about him for months 
when we were at Holcombe, that he haunted 
me even then. I never could understand 
your taking such an interest in that poor, 
demented wretch.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


257 


“ Because lie was such a poor, demented 
wretch, when he ought to have been one of 
the grandest men of his time. It seems 
strange that a man who might command suc- 
cess in any position, should become the slave 
of a debasing appetite ; yet he is not the only 
instance of such slavery. But I have wan- 
dered far from my starting-point. I must tell 
you, cousin Warren, that you are liable, at 
any time, to suffer as you did last night, unless 
you change your manner of living. A few 
such attacks, increasing in severity, would 
leave you in a sad condition. I know you are 
impatient at this talk,” Dr. Manson continued. 
‘‘ I know I am presuming as perhaps no other 
one of your friends would dare presume ; 
but my love for you and for your dead mother 
move me to do this. What can I say to make 
you realize your danger ? Do you know it ? ” 
he asked, in an excited tone, which made his 
4 companion start with surprise. 


258 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


I know more than you can tell me ; but I 
still have confidence in myself,” was the an- 
swer given to this question. 

‘‘ It may be that you have, this evening ; ” 
and the speaker resumed his natural tone. 
“ But last night and this morning your confi- 
dence was in brandy.” 

“Hal, you torture me!” cried Warren 
Lewis, wildly. “ What would you have ? ” 

“ I would have you for ever abjure the use of 
all intoxicating liquors, regain your health, and 
live to a good old age, respected and happy. 
Oh, Warren, do be persuaded, before it is too 
late. Think of your accountability to God.” 

“ You know I will not bind myself with 
pledges, Hal. I will never do that. It is too 
childish.” 

“ Childish 1 ” repeated Dr. Manson, scorn- 
fully. “ In every business transaction, you 
bind yourself by some pledge. In every 
friendship, pledges are made or implied. Say 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


259 


you are determined to go on as you have com- 
menced ; but don’t say that pledges are child- 
ish.” 

The man thus addressed replied as best he 
could ; and the conversation was continued, 
until, convinced that no good would be effected 
by further discussion, the doctor rose to leave. 
Clasping the hand, and looking steadily into 
the face of his cousin, he said, I promised 
your mother I would appeal to you, by every 
motive man holds sacred. Tell me, Warren, 
if I have redeemed that promise. If you are 
ruined, shall I be held guiltless ? ” 

‘‘ Yes, Hal, yes ! God bless you ! ” and for 
a moment all that was noble in the nature of 
Warren Lewis, struggled for ascendency. I 
shall think of what you have said. Good- 
night.” 

Good-night, cousin Warren. I shall never 
allude to this subject again, unless you desire 
it; but I shall never cease to pray for you. 


260 


THE HERMIT OF H0LC03MBE. 


God bless you, and keep you from all evil.” 
Thus they parted. 

The morrow brought its cares and re- 
sponsibilities. Mr. Lewis could not stay in 
his old home ; yet refused to go with either 
of his daughters. 

Mrs. Manson invited him to spend a few 
weeks with her ; but this he was not pleased 
to do. At length, his son proposed a long 
visit west ; and the family seeing no objec- 
tion to such an arrangement, were rejoiced 
when he decided to go. 

This decision was no sooner announced to 
Dr. Manson, than he wrote a long, confiden- 
tial letter to his sister and her husband. 
“I must say that I think brother Harry is 
troubled without cause, this time,” she re- 
marked, after reading the letter aloud. 

“ Perhaps not,” answered her husband. 
‘‘ You may be sure he understands Uncle 
John far better than we do.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


261 


Marion Lewis welcomed her father-in-law 
affectionately, tears expressing both sympathy 
for him, and sorrow for her own loss. The 
children divided their attention between papa 
and grandpa ; winning smiles from the latter, 
despite his heavy heart. 

“ Five noble boys,” he said, looking fondly 
upon them. “You ought to be a happy man, 
Warren. “ I am afraid you will find me tire- 
some,” he added, turning to his daughter. 
“ My wife was everything to me, as you are 
to your husband, and I am afraid of going 
wrong without her. She was my conscience.” 

“Father, you will take a glass of wine,” 
said Warren Lewis, as they sat at the dinner 
table the next day. 

“ No, I think not,” was the reply. “ Your 
mother never liked to have me drink it.” 

“But you need it, now, as a medicine. 
You said you felt ^better for it, on your 
journey.” 


f 


262 THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

“Yes, I did. It seemed to put a little 
life into me ; but I don’t wish to get into 
the habit of drinking it. 

This was said listlessly, as though drinking 
or not drinking was of small consequence ; 
and a little more persuasion silenced all 
scruples. “ Marion, do you never taste of 
wine ? ” 

“ Never ! ” she replied, emphatically ; and 
a glance from her husband prevented further 
remark. 

“I seldom drink it,” remarked the old 
gentleman. “But coming out here, I don’t 
know how I should have kept up without 
an occasional glass of wine.” 

“ He wouldn’t have drinked it, if mother 
had been with him,” thought Marion, with 
difficulty repressing the words which sprang 
to her lips. 

How she longed when alone with him, to 
unburden her heart, and beg him never to 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE, 


263 


taste wine again at her table. ' But fear that 
he would betray her interference kept her 
silent, while day after day, both father and 
son drank wine in her presence, and in the 
presence of her children. 

How could a man do this while mourning 
the loss of one whose whole life had been a 
protest against such indulgence, and who, 
as he often said,, had saved him from a 
career of dissipation ! I cannot tell. I only 
know that so it was ; until Mary Carr, aware 
of the fact, no longer wondered at her 
brother’s anxiety. 

“ What can we do ? ” she exclaimed, after 
returning home from a dinner at her cousin’s. 
“ It made me shudder to see Uncle John 
drain his glass. And how Warren has 
changed! Did you notice how he looked, 
to-day ? ” 

“ 1 always notice his looks,” was the reply. 
“ He is growing old too fast.” 


264 THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 

And Marioiij too, John. I tell you that 
she has more trouble than she allows any 
one to see.” 

‘‘ Mr. Lewis is considering a new specula- 
tion, said John Carr, after a short silence. 
“ He didn’t speak of it to-day, as I hoped 
he would ; but Uncle John told me about 
it. He has enough business on his hands, 
now, and I am growing anxious in regard 
to his health. He must break down soon, 
if he goes on at^this rate.” 

Mary, knowing what was implied by this 
last remark, asked no questions. Her anxi- 
ety, just then, was for her uncle rather than 
her cousin ; and this anxiety was increased 
when told by the former that he had some 
thought of making the west his permanent 
residence. 

I don t think I would,” she said seriously, 
in reply to this. 

“ Why, Mary, wouldn’t you like your old 
uncle for a neighbor ? ” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 265 

« Yes, sir ; but it would never seem like 
home to you here.” 

“ It will never seem like home, anywhere,” 
he responded. ‘‘ I can’t go back to the house 
where I lived so many happy years with my 
wife. I can’t do it,” he repeated. “ It un- 
mans me to think of it. I haven’t any heart 
for business, either. I believe I can endure 
life here, with Warren and his family, better 
than anywhere else.” 

“ But what would Mr. Jewett and Paul 
say to your leaving the store ? ” asked Mary, 
in her surprise, with no definite thought of 
what she was saying. 

“ They can do well enough without me,” he 
answered. “ Paul could manage the entire 
business alone. My daughters don’t need 
me,” added the lonely man, sighing as he 
thought of her whose life had so long formed 
a part of his own. What shall I do but stay 
here ? Can you tell me, Mary ? ” 


266 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOJIBE. 


She wished to say, “ Go back and do your 
duty;” but then would come the question, 
“ What is my duty ? ” and this she was not 
prepared to answer. 

The speculation in which Warren Lewis 
proposed to engage, fascinated his father, who 
was only too ready to consider his judgment 
infallible. 

‘‘Shall you invest with your son?” John 
Carr ventured to ask, when this speculation 
was under discussion. 

“ I am thinking of it,” was the reply. “ To 
tell the truth, John, it makes little difference 
to me what I do. I am interested for a little 
wliile ; but it is all over, when I think of my 
wife. I must get through the rest of my life, 
some way.” 

“ Yes, uncle John, and you must get 
through eternity, after this world.” 

“Yes, yes,” he replied. “I wish I^was 
sure about that, John. I never could feel as 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 267 

Mary did, and since she left me, it is all 
strange and dark.’^ 

Well might John Lewis say his wife had 
been his conscience, and in one way he had 
trusted too much to her. She supplied the 
religious element in her family, praying for 
and with her children, while their father bade 
them look to her for instruction. 

The daughters became Christians. The 
son, engrossed in worldly pursuits, was in 
danger of forgetting the prayers learned at his 
mother’s knee. Was he also in danger of 
forgetting his mother ? He would have been 
indignant, had any one suggested the possi- 
bility of this ; yet he dishonored her memory, 
with little compunction. He had tempted his 
father to drink wine, constantly repeating the 
temptation, until persuasion was unnecessary. 

Justice, however, compels me to say that 
the message delivered by Dr. Manson, and the 
appeal accompanying it, did have tbe effect 


268 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


to make Warren Lewis very wretched, for 
several days. Some things he had before seen 
but dimly, now stood out in bold relief ; and 
he denied himself the unlimited indulgence to 
which he was accustomed. He could not 
think of total abstinence. It would involve an 
utter prostration of his powers, both mental 
and physical ; and yet he knew there would 
come a time, when 

Often had he reached this point in his 
conclusions ; and as often refused to see the 
end. His wife no longer remonstrated with 
him, or, indeed,, replied at all when he was 
in his worst moods. It seemed to her now, 
that she could bear anything from her hus- 
band, if his father was not injured. Hanger 
threatened and she was powerless to avert 
the blow. 

His visit had been extended long beyond 
what was expected, when entering the room 
she usually occupied with her children, Mr. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


269 


Lewis surprised his daughter-in-law weeping. 
‘‘ Why, Marion, dear, what is the matter ? ” 
he exclaimed. 

“ Nothing, only I am tired and a little 
nervous,” she replied. “ Tears are sometimes 
a great relief to me.” 

“ But it hurts me to see them,” was the 
reply. “ I always felt myself responsible for 
every tear my wife shed. Now she has gone, 
I have nothing to live for but my children, 
and they have enough without me.” 

“ Oh, no, father. We should miss you 
sadly. We all wish to make you happy.” 

“ I know it, Marion, and you have done 
me good since I came here. I don’t know 
but I might be interested in business again, 
if I should be with Warren. Would you be 
willing to have the old man stay ? ” 

“ Yes, father, if you could be happy with 
us.” 

‘‘ I could be happier here than anywhere 


270 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


else,” replied the old gentleman ; and after 
this, weeks lapsed into months, without any 
definite arrangements for return or permanent 
residence. 

His house was occupied by Dr. Manson and 
the lovely woman whom he called wife.” A 
second wife she was ; yet in the rich maturity 
of his manhood, he gave her all of devotion 
and tenderness her heart could crave. Every 
one rejoiced at his marriage, and this occupa- 
tion of Uncle John’s house had been proposed 
by its owner, so that he need feel no care 
in regard to it. The furniture remained as 
it had been arranged by his wife, and he was 
pleased to have it so. 

Dr. Manson often thought of his uncle, 
wondering if it was well with him ; while 
Mary wisely or unwisely forbore to write 
anything which would cause anxiety. “ What 
good would it do?” she asked her husband 
when he once suggested it. “ Uncle John 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


271 


can’t be placed under guardianship, and 
Warren is nearer to him than Harry. He 
has a right to invest his money as he pleases, 
and to eat and drink what he pleases. I wish 
Marion would speak to me about it. Then, 
perhaps, something might be done.” 

At length Marion did speak. “I don’t 
know as I ought to tell you,” she said, sinking 
into a chair, after their first greetings. ‘‘ But 
I must tell some one or I shall die. 0 Mary, 
thank God there is no wine-drinking in your 
house. It is a curse, the deadliest curse;” 
and then the speaker’s voice was choked 
with sobs. “I have come to see if you can 
help me.” 

Fatigue and excitement here so over- 
powered her that she required support to 
prevent her falling. Lie down and rest,” 
said Mary, tenderly. “Tell me anything 
you please ; and be sure I will find some way 
to help you.” 


272 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

With sighs and tears and groans a story 
was told, the like of which has been told by 
many a heart-broken wife and mother. A 
husband, honored and respected by the world, 
was an exacting tyrant at home. 

“ I don’t know how it is that he controls 
himself before father,” said Marion. ‘‘ But 
he does; and usually before me. Some- 
times he seems so unhappy, that I pity him 
more than I blame him; and I know he is 
fast wearing himself out. In his sleep he 
talks of an old man with streaming hair and 
flaming eyes. He starts and shrieks, until I 
think every one in the house must hear him. 
Yet I could bear that, if it was not for 
father. He is learning to love wine. I have 
watched him, and I can see it. He has been 
here almost four months, and he ought to go 
home. He talks of selling out his business 
and spending his life here ; but it will kill 
me if he does, and, and — ” here her voice 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


273 


fell to a whisper, — “he will be a drunkard.” 
Mary Carr had said this often to herself ; yet 
shuddered as she heard it said by another. 
She was unable to command her voice for a 
reply. Marion looked up sadly, asking, 
“ Can’t you help me ? ” 

“ I will try,” answered Mary, with great 
'effort. “ If Harry was only here, he might 
influence uncle John. I have thought of talk- 
ing to uncle John, myself.” 

“ Did you ever say anything to Warren 
about drinking as he does ? ” After all, the 
thought of her husband was uppermost in the 
mind of Marion Lewis, as this question plainly 
showed. 

“ It would do no good,” answered Mary. 
“ John has talked with him, several times ; 
but cousin Warren thinks he knows best. 
May I tell John what you have told me ? ” 

“ Yes,” was the reply, after some hesita- 
tion. “ Some one must help me, and I know 
1 can trust your husband.” 


274 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

Back to her home went Marion Lewis, with 
heart somewhat relieved, and courage strength- 
ened, by tliis interview. Such a beautiful 
home as was hers ! How could its inmates be 
otherwise than happy ? Additions had been 
made to the house, until it would be hardly 
recognized as the same into which a happy 
bride had been ushered. 

So far off seemed that day, it was sometimes 
almost lost from sight ; then it would re- 
appear vividly, as if to mock the wretched 
wife. . She had intended to talk frankly with 
mother Lewis, hoping for counsel and assist- 
ance. Now she must seek these elsewhere ; 
and contrary to her intention of bearing her 
troubles alone, she had made a confidant of 
Mary Carr. 

Matters were worse than John had feared, 
although he considered himself well ac- 
quainted with his old employer. “ You must 
do something,” said his wife. Uncle must 
go home, and Warren must be reformed.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


275 


“ Easier said than done/^ was the reply. 
“ "C^ncle John may be managed, but Warren 
will do as he pleases. Suppose we go there 
this evening.’^ 

This suggestion was carried out, but Mr. 
Warren Lewis was spending the evening with 
some gentlemen at one of the hotels. 

“ Another speculation, uncle John ? ” asked 
his niece. 

‘‘ Something of the kind,” he replied. A 
great railway project is under consideration. 
Things move pretty fast, out here. Per- 
haps I may catch some of the wide-awake 
spirit myself,” he added, rubbing his hands in 
the old fashion. “ I believe I have talked 
more about railways to-day, than in any month 
of my life before ; ” and by the brightness of 
the speaker’s eyes, and the flush upon his 
cheeks, John Carr knew the talking had been 
enlivened by drinking. 

Before leaving, the visitors proposed that 


276 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


uncle John should spend the following day 
with them. “ Come early, and take breakfast 
with us,” said Mary, cordially. “We will 
have it half an hour later than usual, and I 
will make the muf&ns myself, if you will help 
eat them.” 

“ Agreed,” was the reply. “ I will come. 
But you must have breakfast at the usual 
hour. I am an early riser.” 

The next morning, Mr. Lewis was at John 
Carr’s an hour before the time appointed, and 
his niece was about to greet him playfully, 
when she noticed his worn and haggard looks. 
“ What is it ? ” she asked. “ Are you sick ? 
Have you heard bad news ? ” 

“ Both,” he answered. “ I am heart sic^ 
and I have heard bad news. I want Joh^” 
John came, and the old man prayed for 
help, even as his daughter had done, the day 
before. “ My boy is a drunkard ! Bid you 
know it, John ? ” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


277 


“ Not quite so bad as that,’^ was answered, 
soothingly. “He don’t practice total absti- 
nence, but I should be sorry to call him a 
drunkard.” 

“ But he is,” persisted the father. “ He 
abuses his wife and never hears to her advice. 

He didn’t come home till midnight, and ” 

“ He had taken too much wine,” added 
John Carr, without waiting for the sentence 
to be completed. 

“A great deal too much. We had a 
dreadful night. He was a perfect madman, 
and I don’t think it was the first time he has 
been so. His mother used to worry about 
him ; but I never have since I sent him to 
^Holcombe with Harry Manson. I wish Harry 
was here. Seems to me he could do some- 
thing;” and at this Mr. Lewis broke down, 
utterly weeping without restraint. “ Can t 
you help me, John. I can see, now, that 
Warren has changed in many ways. Oh, I 


278 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


would rather see him dead than as he was 
last night. My boy a drunkard I It will 
kill me. I am glad his mother didn’t live 
to know it. Yes, John, I am glad. She 
could never have borne it. I’ll see you again 
to-day, John, but I must go^ home to Marion, 
now. She needs me.” 

“ See Mary, first,” said the younger man. 
She will be disappointed if you go so soon.” 

“ You must stop until after breakfast,” said 
Mary, coming into the room. “ It can be 
ready in a few minutes, and we will eat 
before the children come down.” 

Mr. Lewis, of course, said he did not care 
for breakfast ; but he could not withstand 
Mary’s pleadings, and the three were soon 
seated around a well spread table. Tlie 
hostess compelled herself to eat, and per- 
suaded Uncle John to follow her example ; 
yet it was by no means a cheerful meal. 

“ I suppose, now, you are willing I should 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


279 


go,’’ remarked Mr. Lewis, absently, when 
they rose from the table. 

“ It may be best that you should go,” an- 
swered Mary. Then clasping both his hands, 
she added, “If you would make me one 
promise, uncle, I should be a great deal 
happier.” 

“ I will promise anything in reason,” he 
replied, stooping to leave a kiss upon her 
forehead. 

“ Then promise me not to drink any wine 
to-day. ' You wouldn’t if Aunt Mary was 
with you.” 

A deathly pallor overspread the face of 
John Lewis. His breathing was quick and 
labored. “What have I done!” he cried. 
“ Mary, my Mary, forgive me ! ” and he 
raised his hands, imploringly. “ Never again ! 
God help me! Never again! Bless you 
Mary Carr, for speaking to me. It was time. 
I must go to Marion,” and before another 
word could be spoken, he was gone. 


280 


THE HERJMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


Even the servants looked strangely, in the 
home of Warren Lewis that morning. A 
spell seemed upon all in the house. Doors 
were opened and closed, noiselessly. There 
were whispered consultations in the kitchen, 
and anxious glances in the breakfast room. 

Of course, the servants had known that 
their master was no saint ; yet they had never 
seen him intoxicated. 

I don’t believe it, now,” said one. 

“ You can believe or not,” was the reply. 
‘‘ I tell you he lumbered up-stairs last night 
like any drunken man, and his tongue was 
running till most daylight. The old gentle- 
man went to see what was the matter. 

Humiliated, indeed, was the merchant, 
when he realized what had occurred. Cursing 
liimself for a fool, he yet blamed his wife for 
not having in some way, concealed his folly. 
“ Father will think me a great deal worse 
than I am,” he said, in a morose tone, after 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


281 


being assured that his own boisterous demon- 
strations had roused his father. “We got 
so deep in business that I drank more than 
I ought to : and that is all there is to it.” 

That was only the beginning, as his wife 
might have told him; but adhering to her 
self-imposed silence, she made no reply. 

“ Why don’t you say soijie thing ? ” he de- 
manded sternly. “ You would drive any man 
desperate, with your tears. I’ve had enough 
of them.” 

Oh, would he never stop! Wliat could 
she say to soothe his irritated feelings 1 Past 
experience had taught her many bitter les- 
sons; and she choked back the sobs which 
must not be heard. Her husband had never 
struck her ; but this morning she feared even 
that, and felt a sense of relief when she 
closed the door upon him, and went to meet 
her children. 

How she managed to control herself at 


282 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


breakfast, she did not know. Everything 
seemed vague and dreamy. She saw, as not 
seeing, and heard, as not hearing. Yet 
she attended to the wants of all, with the 
same gentle courtesy as usual ; and while 
forgetting her own needs, was solicitous foi* 
others. 

From the breakfast room Warren Lewis 
went directly to the library, and throwing 
himself into a chair, considered what he 
should do. He knew his father would de- 
mand an explanation of his conduct; and 
for the first time he felt his father’s preseiKje 
a burden. Moreover he fancied that his wife 
had looked upon him coldly ; and he recog- 
nized the possibility of losing her respect. 
As for himself, he was in no condition to 
attend to business. 

He heard his children in the hall, talking 
with their grandfather; and presently some 
one asked admittance. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 283 

“ Come,” he said. The door opened to 
admit five boys; the youngest cradled in 
the old man’s arms. committee of the 

whole,” he exclaimed, with forced cheerful- 
ness. This is an unexpected pleasure. 
What matter of importance is now under 
consideration ? ” 

“Not any, father,” replied John, the eld- 
est boy. Grandpa thought it would be nice, 
to come in all together. So we did, baby 
and all.” 

“And isn’t it nice, my son,” grandpa 
hastened to add. “ Don’t you think we look 
well, together? For my part, I am proud 
of these boys, and hope they will make 
good, true men ; such men as their grand- 
mother prayed they might be. I tell you, 
Warren, we ought to be a great deal better 
ourselves.” 

“Certainly. We are none of us perfect,” 
was the reply. “I hope my boys will do 


right.” 


284 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ Then you must set them a good example. 
A man has no right to expect his children 
to be better than himself.” 

‘‘ 1 mean to be good,” now chimed in some 
young voices. “ Mother says we must, and 
she knows,” added John, decidedly. 

Grandpa did not care to prolong this. visit; 
yet soon after leaving the room, with his 
companions, he returned alone ; and looking 
at his son sadly, said, “I never thought to 
see my boy a drunkard. God forgive me, 
if I failed to do my duty by you. I would 
rather see you in your coffin, than as I saw 
you last night.” 

It cost the speaker a terrible effort to say 
this; how terrible, one might guess by the 
great drops of perspiration upon his fore- 
head, and the agonized expression of his 
face. Conflicting emotions prevented the 
son’s replying, until silence became painful, 
and he was about to make some further re- 


THE HEHMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


285 


marks, when Warren said, in a husky voice, 
“ I never thought to hear my father call 
me a drunkard.” 

“ But it is true, my son.” 

‘‘It is not 'true ; ” and now the voice was 
clear and distinct. “No man shall say .that ; 
not even my father. I told Marion you would 
think me a great deal worse than I am ; ” 
and here followed a- detailed account of the 
previous evening’s entertainment. 

Of course everything was shown in its best 
light, yet the father saw no reason to retract 
his obnoxious statement. He talked long 
with his son, acknowledging his own weak- 
ness, and early indiscretions. 

“ Your mother saved me,” he said. “ I 
have wondered how she dared to trust me; 
but she did, and I tried to make her happy. 
I shouldn’t have been fit to live, if I had 
ever spoken to her, as you speak to Marion. 
You will lose your wife, unless you treat 
her differently.” 


286 THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

“ Lose her ! IIow ? ” asked Warren Lewis, 
startled at the very thought of such a ca- 
lamity. 

‘‘ She will die, and thus you will lose 


her.” 


CHAPTER YII. 


High noon of life. The brightest days, 
The grandest work, the noblest praise 
Should crown this noon, and make it blest, 
Beyond all time of toil or rest; 

And woe to him who dares misspend 
The years on which such joys depend. 



*OR weeks, it seemed that the prophecy 
was about to be fulfilled. Marion 
Lewis was prostrated with an illness 
from which even her physicians thought 
it impossible that she could recover. Uncon- 
scious of what transpired around her, there 
were days when she never ceased to moan 
piteously, except when under the influence of 
stupefying drugs. Sometimes she murmured 
softly, as if hushing an infant to rest. Then 


287 


288 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


she would call for her own dear mother, who, 
long before, had gone to dwell with the angels. 
Her husband, tortured with remorse and fear, 
longed to implore her forgiveness ; but when- 
ever he came into her presence, she turned 
from him as from an enemy. 

Mr. Gregory visited his daughter, and, 
shocked by what he saw and heard, adminis- 
tered a severe rebuke to his son-in-law. 
Apologies were useless. Nothing could ex- 
cuse the ill-treatment of such a wife, and the 
wretched husband attempted no justification 
of his conduct. 

That he should ever be forced to make the 
confessions which he did! That he should 
ever bow his head for very shame, and beg 
to be spared further reproach ! 

If Marion dies, I will never forgive you ! 
Never ! ” said Mr. Gregory, with fearful 
emphasis. ‘‘ She ought to have denounced 
you, years ago 1 ’’ 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


289 


My readers will please remember that the 
man who cowered beneath these words was a 
wealthy merchant, holding various offices of 
trust and emolument. In society, he was 
generous, courteous, and genial. At the 
head of an extensive business, he was in 
pecuniary matters, honorable and upright. 
All this he was, and yet, at the same time, 
he was a drunkard. 

He did not drink the coarse, cheap liquors 
with which poor men satisfy their depraved 
appetites. He did not curse and swear at 
the street corners, — Oh, no ! He was a man 
of refined tastes. Only the best would be 
tolerated by him ; and he walked the streets 
proud of his position. His father’s entire 
property was small, compared with his own ; 
while his yearly income would have seemed 
to many, a fortune in itself. 

“ Do you suppose Hal would come, if I 
should send for him ? ” he one day asked his 
cousin, ^lary Carr. 


290 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


“ He would come, if it was possible for him 
to do so,” was the reply ; and in less than 
an hour. Dr. Manson received a despatch, 
summoning him to the bedside of Marion 
Lewis. 

A letter, giving an account of her sickness, 
had reached him the day previous ; and this 
with his anxiety for his uncle, 'decided him. 
He left his patients in the care of another, 
and started at once ; hoping to benefit his 
friends in more ways than one. 

Bless you for coming, Hal ! Thank God 
you are here ! ” were the greetings which 
told how earnestly his presence had been 
desired. While resting, for a little, before 
seeing the invalid, he learned what he could 
of the symptoms and progress of her disease. 

“ You will save her life,” said his cousin, 
questioningly. 

‘‘ I will do what I can,” he answered ; and 
applied himself to the task with untiring 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


291 


devotion. Watching and waiting, consulting 
with others, yet relying upon his own judg- 
ment, he was, at length, able to say that 
there was a prospect of recovery. 

Then every one in the house breathed more 
freely. A burden was lifted from every heai't, 
and other interests were considered. In a 
long, confidential talk with his uncle, Dr. 
Manson was assured of many things he had 
before suspected. 

“I pity Marion, and I wish I could help 
her,” said the old man, tears attesting to his 
sympathy. “ She has a hard lot to bear with 
her husband, if he is my son. I wish I could 
take her and her children home with me, and 
make them happy. You must talk to War- 
ren. You know how better than I, and if any 
one can influence him, you can. I am thank- 
ful his mother didn’t live to see this day. It 
is hard enough for me. But I must tell you 
how wrong I have been. I am going home as 


292 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


soon as Marion is better,” he added, after a 
long silence following his confession of the 
sin into which he had fallen. “ I don’t seem 
to have much to live for ; but if you and your 
wife will stay with me, I will try to do my 
duty; and — and — 1 want to be a Christian, 
Harry. You don’t think it’s too late for 
that.” 

“ Never too late, while life remains,” was 
the answer. ‘‘ I have prayed that you might 
be brought to this. Uncle John. I know how 
lonely you are, and how desolate your life 
seems ; but God knows best what we need to 
draw us to himself.” 

Notwithstanding the oft-repeated request 
that he would urge his cousin to reform. Dr. 
Manson felt himself pledged to silence. He 
knew by the haggard face and bloodshotten 
eyes, that a terrible penalty was paid for sinful 
indulgence, yet his lips were sealed. 

Silence, however, thus enforced, had its 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


293 


own language, more eloquent than words ; a 
dumb reproach, to which no reply could be 
made. The cousins talked freely upon other 
subjects ; sat at the same table, and loved 
each other none the less, that they were drift- 
ing wide apart. Indeed, it is possible that 
their affection deepened, as they realized this. 
Certain it is that Harry Manson never felt 
more solicitude, or prayed more earnestly for 
any friend, than he did for Warren Lewis. 
Tlie children, too, — how his heart yearned 
over them. 

‘‘ I believe my mission is so far accom- 
plished that it will be best for me to leave in - 
the morning,” he- said, at the close of a day, 
when Mrs. Lewis had shown such improve- 
ment that there seemed little danger of a 
relapse. 

You must prescribe for me first,” re- 
sponded his cousin, after some hesitation. 

‘‘ I have more confidence in you than in any 
one else, and I need medical treatment.” 


f 

294 THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 

‘‘ Wliat can I say?” asked the doctor, 
after listening to a fearful category of infirma- 
ties. “ You know what has brought you to 
your present condition ; and there can be no 
permanent relief, without ” 

“ Without what? ” demanded Warren Lewis, 
impatiently. “ Speak out what you mean. 
The truth won’t hurt me.” 

“ 1 wish it might do you good,” was the 
reply, made in a serious tone. ‘‘ I can’ tell 
you nothing which I have not told you before. 
You must reform, or die the death of a drunk- 
ard. Medicine will have little effect upon you, 
until the cause of your disease is removed.” 

“ I have been more temperate since mother 
died,” was said, after a somewhat prolonged 
silence. “ I indulged too freely, one evening 
in company, but I have been punished for that, 
and am not likely to offend again, in the same 
way. Tell me how much or how little stimu- 
lant I can take with safety.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE, 


295 


“ Not a drop, cousin Warren. Nothing but 
total abstinence will save you; and that 
should be adopted soon. If you will follow 
my prescription faithfully, I think you can 
regain both mental and physical strength. 
The old hermit will cease to haunt you, and 
you may yet be a happy man.” 

“ Who said the old hermit haunted me ? ” 
asked Warren Lewis, in an excited tone. 

‘‘ I did not need that any one should say 
it,” answered Dr. Manson. I have seen you 
close your eyes, as if to shut out some disa- 
greeable sight, or turn aside to look from a 
window, when I knew, by the expression of 
your face, that you saw what you did not wish 
to see.” 

“ It’s true, Hal. No use for me to deny it, 
although I know I am a fool. I see the old 
man everywhere. Sometimes his hateful face 
comes between me and my children ; and 
sometimes it stares at me, from my Ledgei. 


296 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ Cousin Warren, do you remember that 
you have often said you would give up the use 
of liquor, whenever you were convinced that 
it injured you ? Has not that time come ? 

Ho you doubt my word, when I tell you you 
are killing yourself?’^ 

“ No, Hal, I believe every word you say. 
I wish to God I had never tasted of wine ; and 
yet, it will kill me to give it up. I can’t do 
it, Hal. I don’t know as I have the power; ” 
and the proud man pressed his hands to his 
forehead, in the vain effort to still the throb- 
bihgs of his brain. ‘‘ I never dreamed I 
should come to this. Think of it, Hal ; I have 
been prospered in everything except myself.” 

Hal had thought of it sadly, and could not 
find it in his heart to congratulate his cousin 
upon the accumulation of property. He did 
what he could in the way of prescription, 
hoping some good might be effected ; yet 
knowing well that this depended upon the will 
and conduct of another. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


297 


“I will try to do as you tell me,” said 
Warren Lewis. “I dare not promise more 
than that. If I am saved, it will be through 
your influence. If I am lost, I alone shall 
be guilty.” 

When Dr. Manson left, every member of 
the family felt that a tower of strength had 
been removed. He was so cheerful, even the 
servants caught something of his spirit, and 
rejoiced to do his bidding. For each and all, 
he had a kind, hearty word. 

As he had predicted, the health of Mrs. 
Lewis continued to improve ; and when able 
to join her children, she was so thankful for 
having been spared to them, that she could 
not murmur at her lot. The world did not 
seem wholly dark; although for her the 
brightest dream of woman’s heart had faded. 
She would not look back, l^ut prayed for 
strength to go forward. She had leaned 
upon an arm of flesh ; henceforth, she must 


298 THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 

depend upon one able to save to the utter- 
most. 

Her husband had asked pardon for his 
unkindness ; acknowledging his fault so lium- 
bly, that the very humility pained her. ‘‘ Let 
us never speak of it again,” she said, after 
assuring him of her entire forgiveness. 
‘‘ Perhaps I have been too sensitive. We 
can both try to do better in future;” and 
remembering that he was annoyed by tears, 
she repressed so far as possible, every appear- 
ance of emotion. 

He would have been better pleased had she 
thrown herself into his arms, and wept with- 
out restraint ; but she could not know this. 
Desiring to act in accordance with liis wishes, 
she assumed a calmness she was far from 
feeling. 

Mr. John Lewis remained until ho saw his 
daughter attending to her ordinary duties, 
and then he, too, went to his eastern home. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


299 


You can depend upon me, always,” the old 
man had said to Marion. ‘‘If you need a 
friend send for me. We neither of us know 
what the future will bring; but you and I 
must do our duty, even if it is hard. If your 
happiness depended upon my wishes, you 
would be a happy woman.” 

To Warren he spoke differently ; entreating 
that the past might suffice for wrong doing. 
When gone, the son was more than ever 
absorbed in business. The speculation in 
which he had engaged, demanded attention. 
To be carried through successfully, it must 
be well managed ; and he had too much at 
stake not to realize this. 

His health was good, as he assured every 
one who ventured a question upon the subject ; 
and there certainly was a decided improve- 
ment. There was a change, too, in his habits. 
No wine at dinner, and no fault-finding. He 
manifested more fondness for his children, and 


300 THE HEEJMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 

addressed his wife kindly. John Carr hoped 
for a radical reform in his friend ; and Mary, 
glad to transmit the good news, wrote her 
brother to that effect. 

Six months went by. Warren Lewis con- 
sidered himself a redeemed man, although he 
did occasionally drink a glass of wine. He 
made no disclosure of what he suffered from 
the cravings of appetite. Indeed, he would 
have denied that he suffered at all ; yet it is 
true that he often endured the most intense 
torture. His will was strong, as he proved, 
day after day j and it would have been com- 
paratively easy for him to forego entirely the 
use of intoxicating liquors. He could do it, 
as he acknowledged to himself, with conscious 
pride. Why did he not do it ? Perhaps the 
"very success of his present course made him 
less inclined to thia. 

Business called him from home, as he an- 
nounced to his wife. ‘‘ How long will you be 
gone ? she asked. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


301 


I can’t tell,” lie answered. “ Certainly 
not longer than is necessary. I will write to 
you, if I am gone more than a week.” 

She asked no further questions, and her 
husband did not explain his business ; . but 
John Carr knew that the grand speculation in 
which he had embarked, threatened to prove 
a failure. Mr. Lewis had been chosen by 
those associated with him, to investigate the 
matter, and act as he judged best, for all con- 
cerned. 

“ I don’t like the looks of things for that 
company,” said Albert Jefts, a few days after 
the merchant had started on his mission. “ I 
wish Mr. Lewis was at home ; I never, fancied 
his going. No good will come of it.” 

“You and Mary are inclined to look on the . 
dark side,” was the reply of John Carr. “ It 
won’t hurt Mr. Lewis to lose a few thousand 
dollars.” 

“ In one way it will not. A few thousand 


802 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


dollars, more or less, would not effect Ins 
style of living, or liis business.’’ 

Of course not. He is beyond that, and I 
am thankful. I should be sorry to have him 
meet with any reverse.” 

Mr. Jefts was quite willing to change the 
subject of conversation, since the expression 
of his fears would have no influence upon the 
point at issue. 

Mrs. Lewis received a. letter from her hus- 
band. He could not tell when he should re- 
turn ; but there was no cause for anxiety in 
regard to him. He might go further west. 

After this letter was dispatched, Warren 
Lewis could hardly have told what it con- 
tained. He was in a state of great excite- 
ment. He had accomplished nothing he 
desired. There still remained a possibility 
of doing this, by extending his journey, and 
he prepared for another effort. Yet he was 
despondent ; easily depressed by every un- 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


303 


favorable report ; and in no condition to act 
■wisely. A brave lieart is in itself a pledge 
of success ; but this lie lacked. He knew 
that his business at home required attention. 
Care pressed heavily upon him. 

As was natural to one of his previous 
habits, he had recourse to stimulants to 
supply courage and strength ; and the result 
was what might have been expected. So 
soon as convinced that the scheme which had 
seemed to promise so much would return far 
less than had been invested, he was complete- 
ly prostrated. 

Yet, still desirous of reaching home, as 
soon as possible, he turned his face eastward. 
Brandy kept him equal to traveling, for 
twenty-four hours ; and then he was seized 
with a delirium, which left him no power of 
choice. The country was new, and the hotels, 
by no means first class ; yet accommodations 
were found for him in one somewhat better 


304 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


than the average. He was among strangers ; 
but, fortunately, one of his traveling compan- 
ions was able to give his name and vouch for 
all expenses incurred by him. 

Still more fortunate was it that, later in 
the evening, a surveying party came in to 
pass the night, and obtain supplies. With 
them, was one whose clear-cut, intellectual 
face stamped him as a scholar, rather than 
an ordinary worker ; and whose enthusiastic 
comments upon what he had seen, bespoke 
him a lover of nature. 

“ Well, Professor, are you going on with 
us ? ” asked one of his companions. 

“ Certainly,^ was the reply. ‘‘ I am equal 
to long tramps and camping out, so long as 
I can get plenty of pure air and clear, cold 
water.” 

Got a doctor among you ? ” Tlie land- 
lord had been called from the room ; and on 
his return, asked this question. 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


305 


“ There’s the Professor, about half a doc- 
tor,’’ answered one. ‘‘ He can manage any 
ordinary case.”* 

“ Then I wish he’d try his hand on a man 
up-stairs. Something’s got to be done, or 
he’ll tear the house down, in some of his 
tantrums. He’s a stranger to me, left here 
by the stage ; but somebody said he was rich, 
and told his name.” 

“ What is his name ? ” 

“ Lewis.” 

‘‘ Show me to his room, and I will do what 
I can for him,” said the man, who had been 
called half a doctor. ‘‘I am a good * nurse, 
at least.” 

“ The man’s pretty crazy,” the landlord re- 
marked, as they went up the stairs. “Reckon 
he’s a high liver, when he’s at home.” 

Never was a meeting more unexpected than 
this, when Ellis Farley grasped the hand of 
his cousin. “ You, my cousin ! ” exclaimed 


m 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


the delirious man. ‘‘ I don’t believe it. You 
can’t fool me. Cousin Ellis was lame. 
Couldn’t walk a step, when the old hermit 
made us a visit. You don’t know anything 
about him. No, you don’t. The old fellow 
is my particular friend. Look at him, over 
tliere in the corner! You see him, don’t 
you ? Don’t talk much ; but stays right 
along, and keeps jolly.” 

“I see you, cousin Warren. You must 
have been dreaming. How came you out 
in this country ? ” 

“How came you out here ?” was asked, in 
reply. “ I believe it is Ellis, after all. They 
call you Professor, now, don’t they?” 

“Some people call me so. I came out 
here to study nature a little ; and I am very 
glad our party found it convenient , to spend 
the night in this house. Else I should prob- 
ably have missed you.” 

Mr. Lewis, roused for a little, made a great 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOxMBE. 


307 


effort to control himself, and talk coherently ; 
but this was impossible. He complained of 
headache and feverish thirst. He asked for 
brandy ; then demanded it ; and, at length, 
swore that no one should keep it from him. 

“ Hal has no right to treat me as a child,” 
he cried. ‘‘I’ll do as I please, and drink 
what I please. And you old fellow, over 
there, better keep out of my way,” he added, 
shaking his fist towards a corner of the room. 

Ellis Farley had never seen such a -case 
as this : but he understood it, sufficiently, to 
know that his cousin was suffering from an 
attack of delirium tremens. His medical 
knowledge was' only such as is gained by ob- 
servation, and the primtice which usually falls 
to the best nurse of a traveling party. He 
had not expected such a call as this ; and 
doubting if he was equal to the occasion, was 
about to ask if a physician could be obtained, 
when brandy was again demanded. 


308 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ Shall I bring some ? ” asked the land- 
lord, who had been standing just outside the 
door. 

“ No, sir. Bring my knapsack, if you 
please ; and a glass of cold water.” 

It required both persuasion and force to in- 
duce Mr. Lewis to swallow the potion pre- 
pared for him, although assured it would do 
him good. He accused Ellis Farley of at- 
tempting to poison him, declaring that what 
he had taken was liquid fire. 

His ravings were frightful and discon- 
nected ; yet the old hermit and Hal seemed 
first in his thoughts. At length he slept; 
starting, muttering, and shouting, until his 
delirium exhausted itself. By this time, it 
was nearly morning, when his cousin obtained 
a few hours’ rest. 

This meeting necessitated a change in the 
Professor’s plans. He could not go on with 
his party, as he announced at the breakfast 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


309 


table, greatly to the disappointment of all 
concerned. 

‘‘ And the best of our route before us,” said 
one. “ I don’t see how we can do without 
you. We might wait a day.” 

‘‘You need not do that,” was the reply. 
‘‘ It is quite possible that I shall go home with 
Mr. Lewis. Unless he improves very much I 
must, and trust to joining you again some- 
where this side the mountains.” 

They did wait, however, one day. But the 
sick man could not be left. Neither was he 
in any condition for travelling ; so that 
several days went by, wearily. 

“ It seems strange that we should meet out 
here. Cousin Ellis, when I supposed you a 
thousand miles away,” he said, in answer to 
some remark. 

‘‘ There was a providence in it,” his cousin 
replied. ‘‘ I must have been sent here for the 
purpose of meeting you ; and I am very glad 


310 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


it was SO. You needed some one to take care 
of you.” 

‘‘ Yes, and need still more. I must get 
home as soon as possible. Can you go with 
me ? ” 

‘‘Whenever you are able.” 

“ Then let us start to-morrow,” was the re- 
sponse. “ I know you have sacrificed your 
plans, to stay with me, and I am very grate- 
ful. I can never repay you ; but what I can 
do, I will. I used to think money would -buy 
everything.” 

“ Not everything. Cousin Warren. Health, 
strength and happiness are not to be bought 
with silver or gold.” 

“ If they were, I should be a richer man 
than I am now ; although I am poorer by 
some thousand dollars, than I was six months 
ago. My journey out here has been a waste 
of time, and I must go home.” 

“ But vou are in no condition to travel,” 


THE. HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 311 

said Ellis Earley. “You must wait until you 
are stronger.” 

“ I must be strong,” was the reply, and re- 
monstrance was useless. The next morning, 
he resumed his journey. That he was suffer- 
ing, his. looks plainly showed ; yet he made 
no complaint. Eating little and drinking 
much, he succeeded in reaching home, with 
his companion. 

Seventy years seemed to have been added 
to his age, during his absence ; and he had 
hardly returned the greetings of his family, 
when he begged to be allowed to rest. “ I 
have had a hard jaunt, as you know,” he said. 
“I shall be better to-morrow ; but now, every 
noise distracts me.” 

Ellis Earley was welcomed cordially, and 
urged to prolong his stay. Mrs. Lewis was 
very grateful for his kindness, and so far as 
dollars and cents were concerned, he was 
generously remunerated, although refusing to 


312 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


accept half which his cousin wished him to 
receive. 

“ You ought to stop and allow your friends 
here to become acquainted with you,” said 
Mary Carr. “ I consider myself neglected 
by my relatives. Father and mother think 
I am so far away, they can come but seldom, 
and my brothers and sisters make the same 
excuse.” 

“ Then you must make amends, by visiting 
them,” was the reply. 

“ I do visit them, but not so often as I 
should, if my husband could spend time to 
visit with me. We are such an old-fashioned 
couple, that we don’t like to be separated ; ” 
and the happy laugh told that, to one at least, 
life had not been a disappointment. 

“Then you wouldn’t like to have cousin 
John apend his summers, exploring forests 
and climbing mountains, while you remained 
at home.” 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


313 


“ Indeed, I wouldn’t. I should insist upon 
going with him.” 

“ So my wife said, before we were married, 
cousin Mary ; and some of my most pleasant 
excursions have been made with her. I think 
we are as old-fashioned as you ; although we 
live differently. My pursuits take me from 
home, more than I could wish. John is a 
model family man; and for that matter, he 
ought to be.” 

‘‘ So ought others. I wish cousin Warren 
was more like you and John. He has done 
better for the last few months,” she hastened 
to add. ‘‘ But I never feel that he is quite 
safe.” 

It was a great mortification to Mr. Lewis 
to confess that his journey had been unsuc- 
cessful, and the speculation of which he had 
been so confident, a failure. His loss was 
insignificant, compared with his means ; but 
there were others, who liad trusted his judg- 


314 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOxMBE. 


ment, upon whom the loss would fall heavily. 
He shrank from seeing them ; yet, when in 
their presence, made a frank statement of the 
case, acknowledging that he had been de- 
ceived. 

The meeting of the company was a severe 
tax upon his strength ; occurring, as it did, 
when he ought to have been under a physi- 
cian’s care. Wine enlivened the occasion, 
while men drank to hide their chagrin and 
disappointment. Warren Lewis intended to 
drink sparingly ; but prudence was forgotten. 
At a late hour, he was taken home in a car- 
riage. His friends said he was ill ; his 
enemies would have said that he was intoxi- 
cated. 

His wife did not send for medical assist- 
ance. She was stronger than she had been, 
when this occurred before ; and moreover, 
Dr. Manson had instructed her how to meet 
such an emergency. With steady hand she 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


315 


prepared the draught which she pressed to 
his lips; speaking firmly, when he declined 
it, and conquering by her very calmness. It 
was dreadful to do this ; but necessity knows 
no law. 

The next day, the merchant could not leave 

A 

his room. Suffering intensely, and craving 
what he knew would aggravate his sufferings, 
peace and happiness seemed infinitely re- 
moved from him. His nerves, quivering at 
every breath, protested against the unnatural 
sensitiveness to which they had been reduced. 
Over and over again, he cursed his weakness. 
His business required attention, and he must 
go to the store. 

So he said to his wife, and attempted to 
Tise from the bed, which he, at length, suc- 
ceeded in doing, with her assistance. 

‘‘ Poor Marion ! ” he added, looking at her, 
pityingly. I never thought I should lean 
upon you, in this way. I have made a mis- 


316 


XHE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


take somewhere in my life. I wish I could 
rectify it, for the sake of us all.” 

“ I think you could rectify it,” she an- 
swered ; and the tears would come despite 
her efforts to restrain them. 

“Poor Marion!” he said again. “You 
deserved a better husband than I have been. 
And my boys ought to have a better father. I 
know it, as well as you do. 

Here his speaking was interrupted by a 
paroxysm of pain, and he called for a remedy 
which he kept constantly ^at hand. For the 
first time, however, it produced no effect, 
and he was obliged to return to his bed. He 
suffered mentally, as well as physically. 
Mind and body reacted, each upon the other ; 
and like a child, he desired the presence of 
some one who would give him sympathy. 
He begged his wife not to leave him, and at 
last broke down so entirely, that he wept. 

“I wish Hal was here,” he said, after a 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


317 


short silence. I need him. No one else 
can do me any good,” he added, when it 
was proposed that the family physician be 
called. Hal understands my case.” 

A few hours later, however, it became 
absolutely necessary to have some medical 
advice ; and for the time, relief was gained, 
Mr. Lewis was again seen in his store, attend- 
ing to business and professing to be well. 
Yet his friends were not deceived. John 
Carr, who was always anxious in regard to 
him, advised that he devote six months to the 
recovery of his health. 

“ And what should I do ? ” asked the elder 
merchant. ‘‘‘How should I set about it?” 

‘‘ Take your family, and go east,” was the 
reply. ‘‘ Put yourself under Dr. Manson’s 
care, and follow his directions, implicitly. My 
word for if, you’ll take a new lease of life. 
That is what I should do, if my health was 
like yours.” 


318 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


Your health will never be like mine, John. 
You began right, and when you are of my age, 
you will be in the very glory of your life. I 
have lived too fast, stimulated too much ; ” 
and there was a sad cadence in the voice 
which uttered this. ‘‘I am now paying the 
penalty. I know it better than any one can 
tell me. I hope my boys will do as you have 
done. John, you will be a friend to my 
boys.” 

“Yes, sir; I love them now, next to my 
own children ; and I have not forgotten your 
kindness to a poor, lame boy, who was almost 
a beggar.” 

“ Not very near to being a beggar now, 
John,” \\»as the response, made with affected 
cheerfulness. 

“No, sir. But I never see a poor boy, 
looking as though he was hungry, without 
thinking of the days when I lay bolstered upon 
the bed, longing for mother to come and give 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


319 


me something to- eat. Poor mother! How- 
hard she worked to take care of me 1 I assure 
you, poor children appeal to my heart, as they 
never can to yours. I have twenty boys in 
my Sabbath school class, every one of them as 
destitute as I was ; and I hope to make good 
men of them. I have all their names on my 
temperance pledge.’’ 

‘‘ That is right, John. I used 'to think — 
But no matter. I shall be getting tedious, 
unless I stop where I am. Preach temper- 
ance to my boys as much as you please. I 
will think of your proposition, if I find myself 
getting worse.” 

Dr. Manson was constantly advised in re- 
gard to his cousin’s health. He knew of the 
meeting with Ellis Farley. The details of 
this had been given to him, with such minute- 
ness, that he comprehended it all ; and it was 
at his suggestion that Warren Lewis was in- 
vited to spend several weeks in the old 
home. 


320 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


The letter containing this invitation was 
received when the merchant had been confined 
to his house for two days ; and his wife, who 
had been previously consulted in regard to 
such a visit, urged its acceptance. 

Let us go,” she said. “ You ought to 
give up care for a while. You can have the 
benefit of Dr. Manson’s skill, and your health 
is now the first consideration. Let us go as 
soon as you are able to ride.” 

“ But my business. What of that ? ” was 
asked ; and the wife supposed that this was 
the cause of his hesitation. He would have 
said to any one tliat business kept him at his 
post ; yet in his heart he knew it was not so. 

He cared for his pecuniary interests. The 
ambition which had moved him, when 
younger, still held its sway. But money was 
not counted against health. Oh, no ! He 
would have given half his fortune for the 
strength which had been his ten years 
before. 


THE HEEMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


321 


Another motive influenced him. He was 
now free to drain the poisoned cup, when- 
ever appetite overmastered his will, or circum- 
stances seemed to demand it. In his father’s 
house, and under his cousin’s care, he could 
not do this. The veriest drunkard who wal- 
lowed in the gutter, was not a more abject 
slave than he who had so often boasted of his 
own strength of purpose. He was sometimes 
so goaded almost to madness, that but for his 
family, he would have been tempted to forego 
everything, like the hermit of Holcombe, and 
drink until he died. 

He debated long. John and Mary Carr 
implored him to go to his father’s : his wife 
made preparations for so doing, and at length 
his physician said his life depended upon it. 
Then his cousins proved themselves friends 
indeed. Mary was willing to take four of his 
boys into lier family, and although her father 
could not consent to being separated from 


822 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


them, her kindness was none the less appre- 
ciated. John accompanied him the entire 
journey, guarding against every annoyance, 
and making the trip one of comparative 
comfort. 

Having been expected, everything was in 
readiness for them ; the doctor himself meet- 
ing them at the depot. Acquaintance was to 
be made with a new cousin, yet she seemed 
more like a sister than a stranger, as she wel- 
comed both parents and children. 

“ I am glad you have come,’’ said the father, 
looking anxiously into the face of his son. 
“ I want you all to be comfortable, and con- 
sider this as your own home, while you re- 
main. Harry and Jane proposed leaving me, 
when you decided to come ; but I wouldn’t 
hear to that.” 

“We thought it might be more pleasant for 
you, if we were away,” added Mrs. Manson ; 
but it certainly would not have been, as both 
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis hastened to say. 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBS. 


323 


It was necessary that the invalid should 
seek rest at once ; and he was assisted to his 
chamber, where nothing which could add to 
his comfort was wanting. Few questions 
were asked, although Dr. Manson allowed no 
movement or expression of his cousin to pass 
unnoticed. 

‘‘ I shouldn’t blame you, Hal, if you refused 
to do anything for me,” was said, at length. 
“ I have come to you, as a last resort.” 

“You are not the only one who has done 
that,” replied the doctor, cheerfully. “ I con- 
sider every such instance a compliment to 
my skill. But you must rest, now. To- 
morrow morning, we will see what can be 
done for you.” 

“ How is Warren ? ” asked the father, 
when he met his nephew, in the parlor. 

“Yery tired,” was the reply.” A night’s 
rest will refresh him, so he will be more 
comfortable. We must give him time to re- 
cover from the fatigue of his journey.” 


324 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


“ He has borne the journey much better 
than we feared,” added John Carr. “ He 
seems stronger than when we started.” 

Later in the evening, John told his brother- 
in-law that the physician who had attended 
Warren Lewis said decidedly there was no 
reason to expect his recovery ; adding, “ I 
knew he must give up the use of liquor, be- 
fore he could be cured. I was sure he would 
never do that, at home.” 

“ But since I saw him, he has drinked 
less than for some time previo.us.” 

“Yes, much less. But he has drinked 
enough to injure him ; and if I am not mis- 
taken, he has had one or two attacks of de- 
lirium tremens, within a month. Not very 
severe, perhaps, but bad enough. If you can 
'Save his life, you will effect a wonderful 
cure.” 

The doctor shook his head, as he replied, 
“ I could have saved him six months ago, 
if he had followed my advice.” 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


325 


By the next morning, the family seemed 
comfortably established, the children, es- 
pecially, — enjoying grandpa’s house, and 
grandpa’s society. Their father had so long 
held himself aloof from them, complaining 
that their noise was troublesome, they hardly 
missed him. 

He did not appear at breakfast, and it was 
more than an hour after the morning meal, 
before he was ready to see his father. I am 
sorry to see you in this condition,” said the 
old man. 

“ And I am sorry to be in this condition,” 
was the reply. ‘‘I expect Hal will bring 
me round, all right, in a few weeks. If 
not” — Here he paused. 

‘‘ If not, what, my son ? ” 

“ I must bear it,” was answered, after 
what seemed a long silence to him who 
waited. “ I have brought this upon myself,” 
continued the invalid. “ Of course you know 
that.” 


826 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


‘‘ I thought SO, mj son ; ’’ and these words 
came slowly and painfully. 

“It is so ; and now the mistake of a life 
time must be repaired. Hal is to help me, 
and I am to do in all things as he tells me. 
No more wine or brandy for me, whether my 
life be long or short.” 

Hal, as his cousin called him, fearing the 
effect of a prolonged conversation, interrupted 
this interview, and his uncle gave place to 
him. Then followed a thorough examination 
of the patient ; which completed, the cousins 
looked thoughtfully at each other. 

“ Tell the worst, Hal,” said Warren Lewis, 
in a husky voice. “ I have no wish to be 
deceived.” 

“You should have come to me three 
months ago ; but now, if you are ready 


“ I am ready to do anything, anything,” 
was the exclamation which interrupted this 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


327 


remark. “ Only save my life. You ' may 
order anything I shall eat or drink, and come 
what may, I will obey you. Lying here last 
night, with the old hermit staring at me, I 
thought over my past life, and saw it in a new 
light. I have been all wrong. I have not 
lived as I should, and now I am not fit to die. 
Pray for me, Hal. Pray that I may be such a 
Christian as my mother was.” 

Since Warren Lewis finally decided to come 
home, a new spirit had taken possession of 
him. He had thought seriously of death and 
eternity, and thus his life assumed deeper 
significance. 

Dr. Manson did not say he could restore 
him to health, neither did he discourage all 
hope. He did, however, recommend that 
business be so arranged, it could be settled by 
another, without sacrifice. 

‘‘ It is always best to be prepared for the 
worst,” he added, by way of softening the 


328 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMIiE. 


blow he had given. “ Perhaps your business 
is never at loose ends, Cousin Warren.” 

“ I don’t intend it shall be at loose ends,” 
was the reply. But there are some things I 
should prefer to settle myself. I have never 
made a will, and it is best that I should do so 
now. Every man ought to do it, when he is 
in full possession of his faculties.” 

The will was made with all due formalities. 
John Carr bade his friend farewell, and re- 
turned home. One day went by after another, 
while few beside Dr. Manson and his patient 
dreamed of the suffering endured in that 
luxuriously furnished chamber, where a natu- 
rally vigorous constitution combatted the 
weakness and disease induced by the use of 
intoxicating drinks. Bitterly did Warren 
Lewis repent of his sin and folly. Enduring 
pliysical pain, which was one prolonged agony, 
he was at the same time tormented with 
strange, frightful fancies. The hermit of 


THP] HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


829 


Holcombe was his constant companion, until, 
gradually, he ceased to be so much annoyed 
by the pale, care-worn face. This was a part 
of his punishment, as he said to his cousin, 
who sought to rid him of the haunting 
presence. 

“ The old man looks at me more kindly 
than he did. After all, I have done but little 
better than he. Strange we can’t see where 
we are wrong, until too late. It is too late for 
me ; . isn’t it, Hal ? ” 

This question had been often upon his lips, 
yet remained unspoken, while friends hoped 
for his recovery. 

Never, since he had looked into the eyes of 
her he had called wife, and told her she must 
die, had it been so hard for Dr. Manson to 
speak the words which precluded further hope. 
“ I fear it is too late. Cousin Warren. I have 
done my best ; but you should have come to 
me sooner.” 


S30 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


“ I know how it is, Hal. I have killed my- 
self. How long shall I probably live ? ’’ 

“ That I cannot tell. You may live for 
weeks, ahd you may be called suddenly.’’ 

“ Oh, Hal, it is hard to die so,” murmured 
the sick man, grasping the hand which was 
outstretched to him. “ It is hard to leave my 
wife and children ; ” and the hot tears 
coursed down his cheeks. “ God pity them, 
and care for them better than I have done. 
And fathef ! How can he bear it ? Will you 
tell him ? Oh, if I had only pledged myself 
to abstinence, when we were at Holcombe, 
this would not have come upon ine. Pray, 
now, that I may be prepared to die. You will 
be a friend to my boys, Hal. Don’t leave 
me,” he added, as his cousin turned from the 
bed. ‘‘ Marion will come when you go, and 
she must not see me yet. Pray with me, 
Hal.” 

At such a time, the Christian comes to God, 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


331 


with no formal petition. From the very 
depths of his heart, ascends the earnest cry 
for help ; while the All Merciful, looking 
down compassionately, hears and answers. 
Dr. Manson remained upon his knees, until he 
felt that a blessing was given. Then, rising, 
he resumed his seat, and spoke of what most 
concerned his companion. 

It was a sad day for all. The father was 
not surprised, when told that his son must 
soon die, although he had hoped otherwise. 

I must bear it,” he said, with quivering lips. 
“ Help me, Harry. I shall depend upon you, 
and Warren must prepare to die. I think he 
has been different, since he came here,” re- 
marked the old man, looking wistfully into 
the face of his companion. 

He is different,” was the reply. ‘‘ I trust 
he will be prepared to go home in peace. 

Marion Lewis thought she had schooled 
herself to bear whatever might come ; but the 


332 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


blow fell heavily. Small consolation was it 
that an ample support was secured to herself 
and children. She cared only that her hus- 
band should live. Forgotten were the years 
of disappointment and anxiety, when his pres- 
ence had sometimes inspired her with fear ; 
and as she expressed her grief, he learned 
how fond and true a heart he had wounded. 

For what ? That he might show his manly 
independence. That he might drain the glass 
with others, and enjoy the momentary exhil- 
aration of a quickened pulse and stimulated 
brain. On the other hand, that he might be 
tortured with racking pain and weird fancies ; 
and at last, bid adieu to the fair earth, while 
life’s duties were but half accomplished. He 
saw it all now, and wondering at his per- 
versity, asked God to forgive his great sin. 

He consulted with his father, in regard to 
his children ; desired above all tilings, that 
they should avoid the danger into which he 


THE HERMIT OF HOLCOMBE. 


333 


had fallen. He wished Dr. Mansoii to be 
their guardian, yet deferred to his wife, and 
she, with a readiness which showed it had 
been before considered, assented to the 
arrangement. 

Mr. Gregory had married not long after the 
death of his-first wife, and with new claimants 
upon his love, might not give to Marion so 
much of sympathy and assistance as she 
would require. But here, in the home where 
her husband had spent most of his early days, 
there was room for all; and, as Grandfather 
Lewis said, a vacancy which no one else could 
fill. 

So this was decided ; and there remained 
only some business arrangements to be com- 
pleted. From his sick bed, the merchant dic- 
tated various letters, and until three days be- 
fore his death, interested himself in everything 
pertaining to the settlement of his estate. 

We might linger over these last days, dur- 


334 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


ing which the dying man exhibited a calmness 
in marked contrast to the agitation of those 
about him. I might describe the parting 
with loved ones, record the words of admoni- 
tion spoken to liis children, and paint the 
final death struggle. 

But last days, sad partings, and death tri- 
umphs come alike to us all. It is not from 
these, but from the lives I have sketched, I 
would have my readers learn a lesson. 

In a wretched cellar, where never a ray 
of sunlight penetrated the gloom, a beggar 
died, and there were none to mourn his 
loss. 

A long cortege of mourners followed the 
body of Warren Lewis to its resting-place, 
where trees waved and flowers bloomed. 
There were many to honor his memory, and 
speak of his virtues. But so surely as the 
beggar had fallen a victim to intemperance, 
had this man signed his own death warrant, 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 335 

when he refused to forego the use of intox- 
icating drinks. Was it well to do this? 
When, to live at one’s best, insures true suc- 
cess, is it not worse than folly to barter all, 
for a mere caprice of appetite or fashion? 

By the death of his son, Mr. John Lewis 
was once more placed at the head of a family, 
and well did he fulfill the trust he had as- 
sumed. Dr. Manson, the nominal guardian 
of his grandchildren, gave them counsel from 
time to time; but it was the mother’s influ- 
ence which, above all, molded their charac- 
ters. 

When the eldest was fifteen years of age, 
a sealed envelope was placed in his hand, as a 
legacy from his father. This contained a long 
letter ; and if anything had been wanting to 
confirm him in habits of temperance and self- 
control, the words he read supplied this 
need. 

There were four other sealed envelopes; 


336 


THE HERMIT OP HOLCOMBE. 


but only three of these were opened. Tlie 
youngest child died before attaining the age 
of fifteen, and Dr. Manson, knowing the temp- 
tation to which he was peculiarly exposed, 
counted his death a blessing. 

Mrs. Lewis lives to see her remaining sons 
among the noblest and best, serving God 
faithfully, and repaying her care and devo- 
tion. Their grandfather, too, having passed 
the allotted age of man, by nearly a score of 
years, rejoices in his boys, and half forgets 
there was another more nearly related to 
him. 


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